The Culture and History of Faerieland

     Faerieland — Once a grand floating metropolis, now just as grand on the surface of Neopia, is home to many faeries and Neopets.

     However, the faeries did not always have their own kingdom. In fact, the faeries did not originally call Neopia their home. According to von Arieal’s Faeries from Paradise, the faeries came from another world. While the title of the book refers to their original world as a “paradise”, the faeries left their world because it was no longer paradise. They competed with other creatures for resources in that world and eventually, the inhabitants became openly hostile to the faeries. [1]

     Arrival at Neopia

     The faeries, while in their original world, did have a queen named Titania. She decided that in order for the faerie species to continue, they would have to search for a new world. Titania worked tirelessly to create a spell that would make that possible and eventually, she succeeded. However, the spell would require all her magical strength, which would ultimately end up destroying her. With her sacrifice, the faeries returned into pixie dust form and combined into what resembled a space rock. The spell ejected the “faerie rock” into outer space. Eventually, the rock reached Neopia and quietly splashed down near the shores of the then barren landscape where present-day Altador City sits.

     Neopia was quite empty at the time, with most of the Neopets residing in Tyrannia. However, the faeries began to wander around, looking for a place to make their home. Faeries of each element ended up finding different places, but faeries of other elements didn’t find those locations suitable. While they were searching, they ran into a Neopet, a Red Shoyru. Several strange things occurred.

     The faeries had their own tongue that was mostly unintelligible to Neopets. However, they found that suddenly, they could converse in the Shoyru’s native tongue with ease. After some conversation, the Neopian invited the faeries to visit Tyrannia and brought food for the faeries. In exchange for the warm welcome, a faerie dressed in a lavender dress gave the Shoyru a blessing, making her stronger. Therefore, to this day, faeries bless Neopets after they bring the faerie an item that they request. This symbiotic relationship allowed the pets and faeries to live alongside each other.

     The Retreat

     However, there were a handful of faeries that decided instead of blessing pets, they would experiment with curses on them. These behaviours were not limited to faeries of any element, but dark faeries were often blamed for seemingly random ailments. The backlash moved slowly, but some of the pets grew disgruntled with their faerie neighbours. Tensions did not boil over until one incident that most Neopians rarely wish to recall.

     On that fateful day, The Fifth Day of Hunting, 250 BMN (Before Modern Neopia), a group of faeries were experimenting on a Pteri. Several Neopets showed up and tried to fight off the faeries. Suddenly, one of the faeries held up an orb which a Scorchio swiped at, causing it to fall and shatter. Neopets in the vicinity began to undergo a transformation, turning into dark creatures that Neopia now knows as wraiths. Eventually, other faeries invented magic that would repel the wraiths, but it required them to be on Neopia in order to stay in effect. As this was quite some time ago, Neopians often forget about this day, but some faeries memorialize this day by staying indoors and avoiding Neopets.

     Despite the faeries ability to stop the wraiths, the Neopets were fed-up with their activities and sought to drive the faeries out of Tyrannia. Some of the faeries found other locations and settled there, which is why some kingdoms have famous faeries still living there. Other faeries were unhappy with where they settled wanted their own land. The air faeries suggested that there should be a floating land, so that they could keep the wraiths from swarming Neopia but avoid the pets. They began to experiment on ways to create a large floating cloud for their queendom. It was then, that the same faerie in a lavender dress that gave the first blessing drew up some plans for the floating city. A few years passed before they could perfect their spells, but they soon managed to lift a large cloud 10000 feet into the air. Atop this cloud, they built Faerieland. For a long period, the faeries and the Neopets lived in isolation from each other. Queen Fyora, who continued wearing her iconic lavender dress, ascended the throne and hoped that one day, the faeries would befriend the Neopets again. [2]

     The Opening

     As a generation of new, young faeries arose, Queen Fyora decided it was time to slowly reopen Faerieland to Neopet visitors. She would randomly appear to Neopians and invite them to visit. She then allowed them to stay in Faerieland if they wished. After a short period, word of Faerieland spread and soon, Queen Fyora removed a protective wall cloud that hid Faerieland and allowed all Neopians to visit. [3]

      The Fall

     While Faerieland had reopened, several pets still seemed to distrust the faeries. After all, they lived on Neopia for so long. They didn’t really intervene in any Neopian affairs. One particular Neopet, Xandra, after studying many years under the faeries, decided that the faeries were too inconsiderate of Neopia, seeing that they did not appear to care about any Neopian affairs. Therefore, she cursed the faeries and turned them into stone. She then unleashed her spell using dangerous artefacts that the faeries created long in the past from their experiments. This caused Faerieland to fall and land where it exists today. Queen Fyora recognized that Xandra’s methods were rash but understood that if she lifted Faerieland back into the air, the faeries would not be able to establish closer relations to Neopets. Therefore, Faerieland continues to exist on the ground today. [4]

     Culture

     Having lived in isolation for so long, the faeries developed their own unique culture. While many might think all Faerieland cares about is pink and sparkly things, the reality is that Faerieland is so much more than that. Here are some of the various aspects of Faerieland culture. One important note is that the demonym for a resident of Faerieland is “Faelander” as “Faerielander” can be quite a mouthful.

     Government/Geography

     Queen Fyora has long governed Faerieland for as long as anyone can remember. However, although she is powerful, her power is not absolute. Fyora has declined absolute power mentioning that one cannot have a gentle hand if they have absolute power. [5] Thus, Fyora divided Faerieland into several regions that enjoy varying degrees of independence.

     Thetis (Governor: Misha Sera – Water Faerie)

     The region of Thetis is the coastal region to the Northeast of Faerie City. Known for sandy beaches and crystal-clear seawaters, this is often a place where Neopians go to relax and enjoy themselves. Although primarily a tourist region, a sizable number of water faeries live here and help maintain the peaceful, serene beauty of this area.

     Hygeia (Governor: Kara Herns – Water Faerie)

     Built atop a freshwater spring, Hygeia encompasses both the Healing Springs and the Rainbow Fountain. Faeries have known for a long time that this region has water with healing properties. However, it was not until Marina came around when she discovered that she could make all sorts of potions for any healing purpose using the ingredients found in the water and around the spring. This area is diverse in population, but the water faeries do make up a slight majority.

     Nyx (Governor: Jana Marie – Earth Faerie)

     This region includes the Faerie Caves where so many adventurous Neopians have gone. Treasure hunters frequent these caves, looking for hidden items as well as rare items that the faeries might have accidentally dropped. Aside from that, most of the region is inhabited by earth faeries and dark faeries.

     Terra (Governor: Terry Hains – Faerie Poogle)

     This is the mountainous region where Faerieland often holds the Poogle Races. While races are not in session, this area is known for mountain sport, such as climbing and skiing when the weather is right. Often enjoyed by Neopians that love the outdoors, the air, light, and earth faeries living in this area are often trained in assisting individuals up and down the peaks.

     Anubis (Governor: Yuna Flare – Fire Faerie)

     This region straddles the border between the Lost Desert and Faerieland. A hot and dry region, the fire faeries tend to prefer living here. Here, Faerieland has constructed a series of aqueducts designed to bring additional water to the cities in the Lost Desert. This was partly due to a gesture of goodwill after Faerieland’s fall removed some land from the Lost Desert. This area is also known for its merchants that trade goods from all over Neopia.

     Demonica (Governor: Sophia Aera – Woodland Usul)

     Faerieland’s fall also caused it to become a neighbour to the Haunted Woods. Dark faeries and earth faeries tend to live in this region. This is a place where many Neopians perform magical experiments. There are plenty of rare ingredients in the Haunted Woods for various potions and other experimental magic. Ilere, the elusive earth faerie sneaks into Faerieland sometimes to speak with some of her faerie friends. Queen Fyora herself enjoys conversing with Ilere but would never say what they talk about.

     Jhudora’s Bluff (Governor: Jhudora Obscura – Dark Faerie)

     This is an autonomous region that is self-governed exclusively by Jhudora and her friends. While some might assume that this region is only inhabited by dark faeries, the population census includes quite a few faeries of other elements and Neopets as well.

     Faerie City (Mayor/Governor: Cassandra “Cassie” Rae - Non-elemental faerie)

     Due to Faerie City (often fondly referred to as “Fae City” by its residents) having a large population, it gets its own region. Fyora does not involve herself in everyday administration of the city. That power resides with Cassie Rae, the mayor of Fae City. Of course, Fae City itself is split further down into individual districts which are listed here as well.

     Castle Heights – This district contains the Faerie Castle and its grounds. Queen Fyora directly administers this region, and the faeries and pets that live in the castle work under Fyora.

     North Pixie Place – Large numbers of Air and Light faeries live in this area situated north of the Faerie Castle and South Pixie Place. Most of the Neohomes here are built out of yellow and bluestone. Recently many pets have started moving in. Most of the faeries here welcome their new neighbours. They often could be seen celebrating various holidays together.

     South Pixie Place – This neighbourhood is south of the North Pixie Place, but north of the castle. Home to mostly fire and dark faeries with a few air faeries, not much really stands out in this area other than being a relatively quiet and peaceful place to dwell. Most of the housing here is multi-unit with a few standalone Neohomes.

     Willow Wisp – Partially forested, the earth faeries enjoy lingering in the trees here. Fire Faeries have settled in the non-forested parts of the area, building stone houses.

     Rowan Park – This is the commerce district where many of Faerieland’s shops and restaurants exist. The headquarters of Faerie Clothing Ltd. (Neodaq: FAER) is also located here. Property values are high here, but there are living spaces above the shops for well off Neopians.

     Nymphopolis – The Faerieland Academy’s sprawling campus occupies this area and most residents are students or their professors. The Academy is known for magic studies. For more information, see the Education section.

     Each region sends two delegates elected by popular vote to the Faerie Council, which serves as the legislative body. Queen Fyora can veto legislation which the council can override with a two-thirds majority. However, Queen Fyora, if she believes it is necessary, can enact legislation by royal decree. Royal decrees are outside of the scope of the council’s control. The Faerieland Courts are generally independent except for cases that are referred to the Faerie Queen.

     Education

     The primary educational institution in Faerieland is the Faerieland Academy. While many believe this is simply a location for younger faeries to hone their magical abilities, non-faeries can also study various subjects. There are some magical abilities in Neopia that are not restricted to faeries and for those, the Faerieland Academy is a prestigious institution on equal footing with Brightvale University. When it comes to magic though, the Faerieland Academy is second to none. Potions are also a speciality for the academy.

     Students that study at the Academy often live there in order to create a more immersive and interactive educational environment. Young faeries and other Neopians learn at their own pace and thus, there is no limit to how long a student can spend there. Oftentimes, students return to study other aspects of magic, even many famous faeries. The Faerie Queen herself runs a research lab in the institution. Many students attempt multiple times to apply to the lab, but the Faerie Queen is very selective. Still, those that fail receive an in-person visit from the Faerie Queen encouraging them to continue their education and often referring them to other opportunities.

     Defence

     Faerieland maintains a standing army, led by Aethia, the Battle Faerie. However, during times of peace, its size is only about 1000 faeries and pets. The size can be larger during times of critical need as Aethia will recruit members if needed. The army generally plays a role in the defence of Faerieland such as during the Wraith Resurgence.

     Holidays and Festivals

     Faerieland has long celebrated many holidays, including a few that aren’t celebrated elsewhere in Neopia. In addition to all the holidays on the Neopian Calendar, here are some that have special celebrations in Faerieland.

     Fyora Day – Fyora ascended the throne on this day many years ago. The exact length of Fyora’s rule is classified information. Today, this holiday is set aside as a day of service and kindness, two traits that Queen Fyora exemplifies. However, there is a tradition of Fyora ice sculptures popping up on this day. Rulers from across Neopia arrive to celebrate Queen Fyora’s special day. Many Neopians participate in contests where they dress up as Fyora. Queen Fyora judges the contestants and awards a prize to the best dressed. One year, she gave away a cloud racer. Fyora Day Fizz and Fyora Apple Pie are special desserts Faelanders make and consume on this special day.

     The Faerie Festival - This holiday was originally a day to celebrate the founding of Faerieland. However, as the founding of Faerieland was done under a tumultuous time when faerie-pet relations were highly strained, Queen Fyora decided to repurpose it as an event for Fyora to give her address on Faerieland’s current state of affairs and her future vision for the kingdom. Until recently, this event was mainly exclusive to faeries. However, with the Xandra incident, Queen Fyora decided it was best to include Neopians of all kinds. The current festival features a mixture of fun carnival activities, an address by the Faerie Queen, several competitive faerie games and trivia, and lots of Faerieland street food. Pets are now welcome to set up their own stalls along with the faeries as well.

     The Day of Descent - This day is a remembrance of when Faerieland fell from the sky. Lots of Faelanders wear black on this day because it was a day of major destruction. However, Queen Fyora has encouraged everyone in Faerieland to look at how far things have come and to never overlook the needs of other Neopians again.

     Valentines’ Day - While this is not a day exclusive to Faerieland, the faeries have a unique tradition of holding an annual ball. With a twist, the faeries are supposed to invite another Neopian to be their valentine for the day. A multi-course meal followed by a dance usually wraps up the day. The morning is usually a day where the faerie and their valentine work on their outfit and dance moves. After all, there is a competition for the best couple. About four years ago, Fyora chose Lord Darigan as a partner and many Faelanders labelled them The Purple Couple.

     Jhudora Day/Illusen Day - Both holidays here have their devotees. While most of Faerieland isn’t really bothered with the antics of either faerie, the Earth Faeries and the Dark Faeries celebrate the faerie matching their element fervently. Queen Fyora, wishing to remain neutral, treats both days equally. She writes letters to the respective faerie urging them to reconcile with the other.

     Pink Day - While every day might seem like a pink day in Faerieland, there’s a special day anyway. It’s rumoured that Queen Fyora just needed a day off and thought she would make it a day off for everyone.

     Altador Day - Faerieland enjoys a special relationship with Altador with many Altadorians living in Faerieland after the Darkest Faerie went on her rampage across the land. Therefore, the founding of Altador is celebrated by many Altadorians. The faeries have decided to celebrate with them with lots of Altador-themed food and festivities. King Altador occasionally shows up to partake in some events. The respective Altador Cup teams for each kingdom also hold a special exhibition match.

     The Festival of Elements – Originally, each element had its own dedicated day where they showcased the best talents using the magic of their element. However, Queen Fyora was not particularly fond of faeries of a particular element being the only ones celebrating on a day, and she also felt that faeries without elements would feel left out as well as pets. Therefore, she established this festival for all types of faeries and pets to put on a dazzling display regardless of their element. The day typically ends with a talent show where pets and faeries compete to show off their various talents.

     Arts

     Faerieland is also a wonderful place to be an artist. Many Neopians visit the Faerieland Academy’s art school to learn how to hone their best creativity. There are also various opportunities for artists to demonstrate their skills.

     The Faerieland Philharmonic – A symphonic orchestra that plays mostly classical faerie music, but also plays modern pieces by pets and faeries. While originally consisting of only faeries, Neopets are members today.

     The Patamoosian – A primarily satirical “newspaper”, the Patamoosian tends to poke fun at various aspects of Faerieland and Neopian life. Headlines such as “Queen Fyora’s Boring Wardrobe” and “Hanso and Brynn: The Odd Royal Couple” did get the editors in hot water, but Queen Fyora decided it was funny enough.

     The Faerieland Opera and Choir – Often seen at various Faerieland celebrations such as Fyora Day, when it’s not an important holiday, they often sing humorous songs about various aspects of Neopian life such as “Grumpy Old King’s Happy Day” and “It’s Not Purple, It’s Pink!”

     The Faerieland Visual Arts Studio – Whether one draws comics or paints portraits, the Art Studio welcomes visual artists of all kinds. Most of the paintings in the Faerie Castle came from the Art Studio.

     The Faerieland Recording Studio – Various bands can trace their roots back to Faerieland, the most famous being Earth, Light, and Fire. The trio of faeries creates upbeat dance music that every Faelander jams to whenever they feel like having some fun. However, all kinds of bands record in the studio, usually after a successful concert at the Tyrannian Concert Hall. After all, those music CDs don’t make themselves.

     Gastronomy

     Faerieland is also quite famous for their food, especially street food. A popular item enjoyed by many Neopians are Fruity Faerie Fingers. While commonly enjoyed with raspberry jam, Queen Fyora prefers them savoury with Burritoberry Sauce.

     The Faerie Queen burrito and the Faerie Leaves Hot Dog are additional examples of popular street food in Faerie City. The main street of Rowan Park, Faerieland Boulevard, features many food carts where many Faelanders have put their own spin on popular food items in Faerieland.

     Desserts and sweets are also important to Faerieland’s food culture as the faeries all appear to have an affinity for baking. It is rumoured that Queen Fyora herself spends some of her free time trying out new recipes. Celandra is often by her side, giving feedback, often letting Fyora know immediately when something didn’t work out.

     For tea and coffee lovers, there is the Faerieland Roast Company. Following a secret process under the watchful eye of Bean Baroness, Mythra Sera, a fire faerie. The company also dries and roasts tea leaves. Everything is air roasted. The coffee comes in a light faerie roast, an earth faerie roast, and a dark faerie roast. Some faerie gossip might reveal that Psellia’s true reason for visiting Faerieland periodically is to restock on coffee.

     Finally, there are many varieties of smoothies and milkshakes in Faerieland, often served with the street food. With hundreds of flavour combinations, there is bound to be something that suits any Neopian’s tastes.

     Conclusion

     Therefore, as one can see, Faerieland’s history was shaped by various periods of struggle, but it is clear that the faeries are resilient Neopians that bring a lot of diverse culture to Neopia. Neopia would not be the same without the faeries. Thus, if one ever has an opportunity to visit Faerieland, they should go. After all, it’s now much easier to get there.

     Citations

     [1] – von Arieal, Tressa. Faeries from Paradise. Fae Studies Press, Y3, pp. 435-437

     [2] - Varlee, Marianne. Fyora’s Rule. Faerieland Academy Publishers, Y8, pp. 119-124

     [3] – Eowin, Fan. Faerieland: A History. Faerieland Publishing, Y12, pp. 29-32

     [4] – Gautier, Janet. Rebuilding Faerieland: A Journey. Darblat Books, Y15, pp. 10-12

     [5] – Tasha, Peri. Being Faerie Queen. Faerieland Publishing, Y6, pp. 70