A chwinga is a mystical spirit[1] that inhabits natural locations. These tiny elemental beings are known to interact with travelers and locals alike[2]. Chwingas are typically found in remote wilderness areas where they serve as guardians of nature.
Chwinga like to watch.
Types
Shimmerfolk
Reverent Chwinga do sacrifices.
The Shimmerfolk are the most commonly encountered type of chwinga[3]. These spirits manifest as tiny, glowing humanoid figures that seem to be made of pure elemental energy. They are known to assist travelers who show respect for nature.
Behavior
Guardian Spirits
Chwingas primarily act as guardians of their local ecosystems, ensuring the natural balance is maintained. They subtly guide or assist those who respect the wilderness, while hindering or punishing those who cause harm. Their protective nature extends to all aspects of their environment, from the smallest plant to the largest animal.
Chwinga are sometimes creepy.
Playful Tricksters
Some chwingas, particularly those of the Tiny Trickster variety, are known for their playful antics. These may involve harmless pranks, such as misdirecting travelers or creating minor illusions. While these actions may seem mischievous, they often serve to teach respect for nature and its unpredictability.
Elemental Connection
Chwingas are deeply connected to the elements and can sometimes manifest their powers to influence weather patterns, manipulate plant growth, or create minor elemental effects. This connection allows them to respond to threats to their environment quickly and effectively, often in ways that seem magical to observers.
Habitat
Forests and Woodlands
Forest Spirits, a common type of chwinga, dwell in deep woods and ancient groves. Here, they protect plant life and guide woodland creatures. Their presence is often felt in the rustling of leaves or the sudden growth of vibrant wildflowers in unexpected places.
Mountains and Highlands
Some chwingas make their homes in high mountain peaks, where they embody the resilience and grandeur of the natural world. These mountain-dwelling chwingas are known for their ability to survive in harsh conditions and their tendency to assist lost travelers in finding safe paths.
Jungles and Tropical Regions
Jungles are home to many types of chwingas due to the abundance of life that thrives within them. These chwingas often take on characteristics of the colorful and diverse flora and fauna found in tropical regions, making them some of the most visually striking of their kind.
References
1 Dungeon Master’s Guide (5e). Wizards of the Coast, 2014. 2 Tomb of Annihilation. Wizards of the Coast, 2017. 3 Storm King’s Thunder. Wizards of the Coast, 2016.
[sp_easyaccordion id=”951″]
About the Author
Micah Faulkner first started playing D&D back in 1985. He took many years off after high school, but came back in 2016 to find everything new and changed. Now he plays with his wife, son, and sisters every couple weeks.
