Classification: Mythical Beasts & Cryptids

Temporal Range: 18th Century

Geographic Range: Forests in Germany

Diet: Men and boys

Horde: Germanic

Men, beware. Venturing into the forests of Germany can mean death if you encounter the monstrous Fänggen. These female forest sprites eat men and boys, considering children a delicacy, so never let young boys roam the forest alone. They have even been known to trade their own male offspring for changelings. There are also far nastier ways they deal with their male offspring, but we would rather not repeat them here as it is truly horrific and leaves nothing but a pile of dust where a child once was. Female children, on the other hand, are given to local human communities to work as maids until they are old enough to return to the forest or until word reaches them that another Fänggen has died.

Fänggen are deeply connected to the forest, so much so that each one is linked to a specific tree. Their individual names are tied to their tree, and if the tree is cut down or destroyed in any way, the Fänggen will die. The destruction of an entire forest would wipe out their entire race.

In addition to killing men and protecting trees, Fänggen are known for herding Alpine chamois and living peaceful lives among their own kind. They only turn vicious when men are involved. They are striking in appearance—giantesses with hair filled with moss and lichen and mouths that stretch from ear to ear. Their typical attire includes clothing made of wildcat pelts and jackets crafted from tree bark.

Our advice when approaching these creatures is simple: men, stay far away. As for everyone else, feel free to meet with the Fänggen.

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