The Vila in Myth
The Vila are the Slavic versions of nymphs who, created in the primordial coupling of sky, storm and sea have power over tempests and their aspects. Capable of living anywhere in nature ( ponds, oceans, trees, and clouds are the most appropriate), they often shift their appearances to pass unnoticed, capable of appearing primarily as swans, horses, wolves, or strikingly beautiful women. Once a Vila has been given her human shape, however, it cannot be changed. In Slavic mythology, it is believed that the Vila do not possess a soul, but instead are guided and animated by the elements or instincts of the body (the Slavic word for soul is vile.)
Often compared to succubi, Vila can be inordinately physical and lulling creatures (supposedly as a result of the lightning that animates them). Considered magnetic and surreal in their appeal and appearance, they feed equivalently from both despair and pleasure, pain and desire, yet unlike succibi they do not leave their lovers any worse for wear.
Often curious about the affairs of humans, their mischievous mannerisms and disreputable tendencies find their marks amidst mortals and immortals alike. While they often prefer to return to their element in order to reestablish their own reserves, most Vila - particularly the older - are capable of self sustaining for years or even decades without returning to the storm or sea. Too much time spent away from humanity, and a Vila often becomes wild and unpredictable, occasionally growing dangerous. While there is nothing known capable of killing a Vila (they have no soul, and thus no true life), they dislike overly frigid temperatures (they often vanish over the course of winter) and anything overly adverse to nature.