shadefolk

Shadefolk are beings from folklore and fantasy literature described as living embodiments of shade or darkness. They are typically depicted as humanoid figures tied to the spaces where light diminishes, such as twilight woodlands, caves, or urban night. In many settings they are neither entirely physical nor entirely ethereal, existing as elusive silhouettes that can blend with shadows and move between illuminated and darkened places.

Physically they may appear as shadowy humans, with outlines that waver or fade, and sometimes as more abstract forms. Their abilities commonly include moving through shadows, shaping darkness, and cloaking others. Some shadefolk can affect perception through illusions or steal warmth from a person. They are often susceptible to bright light, solar light, or sacred wards, and some stories restrict them to night or dim environments.

Culture and society: Rather than a single uniform culture, shadefolk are portrayed as varied groups or solitary beings. Some are tricksters who mislead travelers; others are guardians of nocturnal places or remnants of forgotten rites. Bargains with humans, pacts with other magical beings, or oral traditions about honor and oath are common motifs.

In narrative use, shadefolk serve as antagonists, mentors, or enigmatic forces overseeing the boundary between day and night. They appear across fantasy fiction, role-playing settings, and games, where their relationship to light and shadow can symbolize moral ambiguity, secrecy, or the unknown.

See also: shade, shadow, night creature, dusk, and twilight folklore.