Air Elementalism
Air elementalism is the the form of Elementalism native to the Zaedyn, due to their spiritual bond with the elemental wind spirit, Sylph. This ability allows for manipulation of wind currents and atmospheric gases for a variety of uses.
The ability to manipulate air comes naturally to the Zaedyn and all individuals are capable of it, to varying degrees. True mastery involves time and devotion, including meditative practices that allow Zaedyn to commune with the Sylph spirit that is bound to their souls. Half-Zaedyn born to a Zaedyn mother inherit the ability from her, though their potential may be limited if mixed with human blood or an opposing element (Earth or Dark).
Basic skills for Zaedyn include creating breezes and supporting flight. Individual Zaedyn can mildly influence localized weather with focus and sustained effort, but large groups of Zaedyn can cause drastic weather changes, such as bringing storms, creating cyclones, or manipulating weather over vast regions. There are many applications for air elementalism amongst the Zaedyn, and depending on an individual's role in society, their skill is honed to a specific style.
Zaedyn can also heal each other with their element, which is a trait of their Sylph spirit that carries into their mortal existence. Zaedyn can marginally increase their rate of healing alone with focused flows of air over an injury, but the effectiveness significantly improves with another Zaedyn to administrate care.
In combat, Zaedyn use wind to push or restrain opponents, create barriers of high pressure, support their aerial agility and speed, guide projectiles, and add extra strength to their melee attacks. They can also suffocate opponents by surrounding them in high-pressure barriers and removing the breathable air from within. If available, toxic gases can be used offensively by carrying them on air currents. Most aeries maintain a force of wind scouts and sky knights who practice these combat skills to defend their aerie or themselves, though few Zaedyn have seen true conflict since the War of the Gods.
Air is also used in construction of Zaedyn aeries by eroding stone with sustained high-pressure currents carrying sand particles. Architectural air elementalism is a highly specialized set of skills that takes decades of practice to learn.
Priests of Zelan are Zaedyn who devote themselves to mastery of their elementalism, including learning advanced techniques and discovering new ones. Some advanced skills include concentrating atmospheric gases and greater individual influence over weather.
