The Magical World Around You || A Study of Magical Beings
Seasonal Sprites
Summary:
Seasonal Sprites, not to be confused with their close cousins the forest sprites, derived from the Latin “spiritus” (spirit, via the French “espiritus”, are powerful entities that can be found within the oldest forests. They are guardians and keepers of the seasons. There is not much known on them but in this chapter we will explore what is known and expand on old and outdated information that has since been proved untrue.
Origins:
It is hard for any scholar to accurately pinpoint where and when the first Seasonal Sprites appeared in history as there have been multiple records in various cultures. Each has it’s own version of them. The most popular theory is that the first Sprites were born in the deep depths of the First Forest. This particular story states that the Great Guardian, realizing that the Forest was way too large to care for on his own, created the first Sprite out of the flowing waters of the river that flowed directly through the center of the forest. It is said that this Sprite, The First Sprite, was a powerful being charged with ushering in the seasons and ensuring all flora within the Forest was prepared for each season. Scholars are unsure what exactly led to The Sprite eventually being split into more than one entity but many presume that it was in fact always this way. Between misinterpretations of ancient text and dead languages there has been much room for error. It has now become common belief that there has always been at least four primary Sprites, one to correspond for each season, dwelling within the forests of the world.
Magic
Despite the previously stated former belief that the First Sprite was all powerful and contained all the powers of the seasons, from what has been observed most Seasonal Sprites only contain the ability to control one particular aspect of their respective season. There have, however, been instances where some Sprites have demonstrated abilities that are outside of their typical realm of magic which has led many scholars to believe that, just like the human mind, there are abilities that can be tapped into by either a strong emotional conviction or practice. It is safe to say that the Sprite’s true magick is just as elusive as their true origins.
Spring
Perhaps the gentlest of the Sprites, the Spring Sprite’s powers are the embodiment of Spring. WIth the ability to manipulate the Earth they often usher in new growth after harsh winters. It has been said that they are able to communicate with all forms of flora. In some cases, Spring Sprites have developed the ability to speak to smaller animals such as squirrels and rabbits. In rare cases they are able to shift their form to become something akin to a spring breeze or a blanket of fresh flowers and greenery. Most Spring Sprites have been reported to also have the ability of flight.
While this particular Sprite’s magick flourishes during Spring and Summer, during the Fall and Winter seasons, much like the forests they care for, the Spring Sprite is weakest. Typically they are not seen much in these seasons, preferring to find a quiet and dark place to hibernate until it is time for Spring again. Because the Sprite draws its energy from the it has been said it is unwise to for Spring Sprites to expend much energy in the colder months as it can be quite fatal for them.
Summer
Unlike their kin, the Spring Sprites, Summer Sprites harbour the ability to influence the weather. From cool summer breezes to violent summer storms, this all falls within the realm of the Summer Sprite’s abilities. Just as the plants speak to the Spring Sprite, the wind speaks to the Summer Sprite. They have the ability to commune with nature, just as the other Sprites, and thrive primarily in the summer months.
Winter is especially harsh for the Summer Sprite. In those months it’s power and energy source is almost completely depleted. As the Spring Sprite may choose to sleep through the winter, the Summer Sprite must be absent through the winter months in order to survive. If not they become exceptionally weak and susceptible to the colder elements.
Fall
Perhaps the most like the Spring Sprite, the Fall Sprite is integral to the survival of the Forests they help maintain. They usher in the changing of fall to winter. Help prepare the plants and animals for the upcoming winter. They are perhaps the most powerful of the Sprites, containing the ability to both speak with nature and with animals of all varieties. While they do not have the ability to grow or create life, they are able to preserve it. This has led many to believe that Fall Sprite’s are carriers of death. But it is the exact opposite. The preserve the lives of the forests, making sure that they are imbued with enough magic to make sure that they are able to survive the winter weather.
Akin to the Spring Sprite, they are able to function during the winter, making sure that those that are supposed to make it through the winter do and those whose time has ended passes on peacefully. The spring and summer months are hardest on the Fall Sprite. During these times they are weakened considerably and most often retreat to their homes until their energy rejuvenates again in the fall.
Winter
By far the most misunderstood, the Winter Sprite has certainly garnered a bad reputation. But the fact of the matter is that the Winter Sprite plays an important part in the circle of life as well. There cannot be new life without some death. And it is in that nature that the Winter Sprite is the most solemn of the Sprites. Many believe that this nature is what has stemmed the idea of there was always just one Sprite, kind and benevolent and wise beyond their years. With the ability to create the winter chill that ushers the appropriate flora and fauna into the state they need to be. While they are unable to fully communicate with the flora and fauna, they posses a strong sense of empathy and are able to care for the them the same way the other seasonal sprites are able to. Like the others, the Winter Sprite’s weakness is found in its opposing season. Summer is especially harsh on these beings. They are at their weakest during those months and commonly can be found in a deep hibernation.
In Summary
Because of their elusiveness, there is very little truly known about Seasonal Sprites. What has been discovered can only be expanded upon and researched more thoroughly. It is this researchers mission to fully debunk the myths surrounding Sprites.
