An ancient book sits on the table before you. Although it smells somewhat musty, it has been used often recently. Filled with curiosity, you crack it open...

{__About the Zahdl__}

The Zahdl are perhaps one of the most magical races on Avryn. Their first appearance was many centuries ago in a time of crisis. Since then, the Zahdl have appeared every time there has been trouble or strife.

Despite the negative connotations that might be associated with this type of arrival, the Zahdl are considered to be the children of this world. This title has been given to them because they have, in fact, been created by the magical energies of the world itself. It is believed that, in theory, the world of Avryn itself is sentinent, and knows when its people or itself is in danger. When it feels the peril of evil, it gives birth to children who will defend it. These children are the Zahdl.

When a Zahdl is first summonded to the world, it almost resembles a human toddler in size and shape. However, at this stage, the Zahdl are still not fully in this world. Their skin is often tainted odd shades because they are still being formed from elemental energies. In the first stage, markings and traits that are carried through all stages of life may appear.

Animal characteristics also often manifest themselves at the first stage. It is believed that the Zahdl themselves are formed from a mix of elemental energy and a type of animal spirit. Nevertheless, it is not suprising to see a newborn Zahdl sporting earlike or tail-like structures, which almost always are seen in all progressive forms. Zahdl can not change species, but there have been rumors of modifications to their preexisting traits. There are also rumors of multiple species Zahdl and legendary species, such as dragon and griffon, Zahdl, although these have not been confirmed as of yet.

Zahdl, at first, are very vulnerable to danger. Their powers have barely formed at this stage. At most, their latent ability has manifested. (Latent abilities will be discussed later in the entry.) Because of this, a guardian spirit is summoned in order to help the Zahdl. Although the guardian stays with them through all stages of their life, they are perhaps most crucial at this stage in teaching them about dangers in the world and helping to develop their moral sense.

Once a Zahdl's power develops enough, they will shift to their second form. The appearance of this form is akin to that of a human child, although their animal traits are most obvious. Also apparent is their lightly colored skin. The cause of lack of pigment in a Zahdl's skin has been debated many times over. Some believe that it is their purity of element, others believe it results of them having been a spirit.

Stage two Zahdl are more physically capable of taking care of themselves. They can begin to take on jobs and activities that they were unable to do before. Zahdl also begin to come into their magic at this stage, although they must rely heavily on the power of their guardian in order to use it at all.

As their power progresses even furthur, Zahdl reach a third stage of maturity, in which they resemble a teenager. As seen in the previos stage, animal characteristics manifest furthur. Their magical powers are even more potent in this stage. Although the power of the guardian must be called upon for more complicated and powerful spells, the Zahdl can use magic on their own for the first time in order to perform simple spells. Most Zahdl are stronger both physically and mentally at this point and may begin to join factions or causes.

It has been said that Zahdl also have more adult forms, and can even progress past those. However, many of the records of the Zahdl's previous appearances have been lost, and this information is, as of yet, unconfirmed by the current Zahdl in existance.

All Zahdl also can be seen to have a latent ability. These abilities manifest almost immediately after birth, and can be used with little or no magical energy. However, most of these abilities are quite quirky. They can range anywhere from the useful regeneration to the bizarre weather predict ability.

The Zahdl are a mysterious race, all in all, and this author is always seeking new information.