Phoenix

A Phoenix is a member of a species of magical, fiery birds, renowned for their ability to self-resurrect out of their own ashes. Phoenixes are legendary, and many intelligent races look upon it as a deity, or at least as a deity’s messenger.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Physically, a phoenix resembles an immense bird of prey. It measures between 10 and 15 feet from beak to tail, but its wingspan can be as wide as 40 feet. By far its most striking feature, however, is its plumage. All of its feathers are the colors of fire—primarily scarlet, crimson, and orange. In flight or at rest, a phoenix looks like a bird made of flame.

Biological Cycle

When a phoenix reaches the end of its natural life, which may be anywhere between 1,000 or 12,000 years, or when it finds itself in an extreme, life-threatening situation, it immolates itself with intense fire. After its death, a new phoenix arises from the ashes.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

The eyes of these creatures are capable of seeing in total darkness and low-light conditions, and they possess an innate ability to detect evil and magic. They may also, at will, see invisible creatures, and are thus practically impossible to sneak up on or surprise.

Civilization and Culture

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Because of its traditional association with renewal and rebirth, most cultures ascribe some symbolic meaning to the sighting of a phoenix. Some consider it a positive omen— a sign of the gods’ favor and a promise of renewed life and increased prosperity in the coming years. Others (usually those with a darker outlook on life) see the firebird as a sign of approaching death and destruction—an ordeal that only the strongest will survive. Whatever meaning a particular culture associates with this creature, there’s no doubt that it is on the side of good. A phoenix doesn’t involve itself in worldly affairs or join in mundane conflicts, but neither does it shy away from attacking evil.

Scientific Name

Pavo Ardens

Average Weight

5,000 lbs.

Average Length

10 - 15 ft. (beak to tail)

Average Wingspan

40 ft.

Geographic Distribution

• Sirithambal

Magic

Phoenixes are innately magical creatures; their bodies radiate an effect similar to protection from evil around them, and they themselves deflect attempts to harm them. They can also freely travel through the Ethereal Plane and Astral Plane. In addition, they possess a wide array of spell-like abilities which they may use offensively or defensively.

Curative Powers

Phoenixes are also famous for their powerful curative powers, able to cure wounds, heal myriad afflictions, remove curses, and even reincarnate the dead.