Base Lore
Phynix are considered the polar opposites to the Ascended. They are formed when an Ascended is either corrupted during the development stages or is cursed. Phynix can not die by normal means. Some may recall their memories of their prior life, while many traverse the land looking for a purpose. Phynix are filled with magical essence and feed from those who also contain afflictions. Typically, they do not need to eat food, but devouring a creature that has either magical essence or afflictions feeds the "fire" inside these strange beings. If they go too long without feeding, they will perish or become ravaged beasts, hungering for any slither of magic. Due to this, many of these beings are found around the Harrow, where magic is plentiful. After a Phynix feeds on an affliction that has an effect, the Phynix can possibly absorb the effect or experience the power for a limited amount of time. Phynix can still eat and taste normal foods, however, it is nothing more than a luxury.

Aside from the harmless fire inside their bodies, Phynix can morph their arms to be bigger or change shape to fight enemies. They can even turn their fire incredibly hot or cold to protect themselves. If a Phynix is injured, its body breaks away like stone despite its form being soft. If they are completely decapitated, the body will reform where the heart would be located. You can keep a Phynix in this broken form if you seal the heart away in an airtight container. Phynix do not have blood, but rather their "soul fire" may spill out their wounds. 

A Place in Elyxium?
Phynix are extraordinarily rare, so many beings do not understand or know of their existence. They are often viewed as some twisted form of an Aphex, or unknown subspecies. This means it is rather easy to merge into districts and with other Aphex. Phynix are just as intelligent, meaning it can often be easy for a Phynix to live a normal life albeit the hunger to feast on magic. 

Phynix contains souls, shown as their "soul fire". 

>> Refer to Aphex traits. <<
Older species reference