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What Do Fae Do to Humans?

Published in Fae-Human Interaction 2 mins read

Fae interact with humans in various ways, often characterized by their unpredictable and sometimes perilous nature. Primarily, they are known for taking humans, particularly those who attract their attention through talent or by causing offense.

The Fae's Interactions with Humanity

The actions of Fae towards humans are diverse, ranging from playful enchantment to severe retribution. Their motivations often stem from a desire for entertainment, companionship, or justice for perceived wrongs.

Common Fae Actions Towards Humans

Fae are known to engage in several distinct behaviors when encountering humans. These actions are often detailed in folklore and stories passed down through generations.

  • Abduction and Entertainment: Fae frequently steal humans, especially adults, to bring them into their own mystical realms. They show a particular fondness for individuals with artistic talents, such as musicians and poets, whom they take for their entertainment. These chosen humans may be kept in the Fae realm indefinitely, serving as performers or companions.
  • Retribution and Transformation: Humans who offend the Fae face severe consequences. The Fae are known to take those who displease them and can inflict various forms of punishment. This might include transforming the offending human into a strange creature or keeping them as servants in their domain.
  • Willing Departure: While often portrayed as forceful abductors, there are instances in lore where humans willingly accompany the Fae to their realm. A notable example is found in some versions of the story of Tam Lin, where the bard is said to have gone with them of his own accord.

Summary of Fae Actions

To provide a clear overview, here's a summary of the common interactions between Fae and humans:

Fae Action Towards Humans Human Target/Reason Outcome
Stealing Adults, especially musicians and poets Taken to the Fae realm for their entertainment
Taking & Punishing Humans who offend them Transformed into strange creatures or kept as servants
Accepting Humans who choose to go (rarely, as in Tam Lin's story) Accompany the Fae willingly to their realm

These interactions highlight the Fae's complex relationship with humanity, often driven by their own desires and a strict sense of justice when crossed.