álits

álits are a type of fictional creature found in the folklore of the Vashon people, an indigenous group from the mountainous regions of the fictional continent of Aeridor. These beings are described as small, humanoid figures, often no taller than a human child, with skin that appears to be made of rough, grey stone. Their eyes are said to glow with a faint, internal light, varying in color from a pale blue to a deep emerald.

The álits are primarily associated with caves, underground tunnels, and the rocky outcrops of high mountains. They are known for their reclusive nature and are rarely seen by outsiders. Legends depict them as skilled miners and artisans, capable of shaping stone and precious metals with remarkable dexterity. Their tools are said to be fashioned from obsidian and other volcanic glass.

While generally depicted as neutral or even shy, stories sometimes portray álits as guardians of hidden treasures or sacred places. Encounters with them are often attributed to those who venture too deep into their territories or disturb their subterranean abodes. The Vashon people hold a deep respect for the álits, viewing them as ancient spirits of the earth and mountains, intrinsically connected to the land. Their exact origins and societal structures remain largely mysterious, with much of what is known passed down through oral traditions and fragmented myths.