Shadar-kai

The Shadar-kai are peculiar people. Commonly resembling elves, these shadow fey are nearly devoid of emotion. Though they existed before him, the Lord of Crows has taken their original forms and created something more. Through him, this once-thought offshoot of elves has evolved into something darker.
As sworn protectors of the Endless Spire, the Shadar-kai are loyal only to the Obsidian Throne. An army serving to protect the dark plains and prevent any force from entering the tower who would seek to take the throne for themselves. However, those whom the entrance has opened freely are permitted, as they are who the Spire has chosen.
With hostile forces beginning to wane and their attention looking elsewhere in reluctant defeat, some Shadar-kai have gone to the Material. Those who were permitted weren't given explicit instructions on their intended task. But, owing to their cold nature, ruthless training, and life in the violent plane of shadow, commonalities would begin to form. Many choose to become widowers, and reapers, fighting alongside the meaningless violence of the Material's many wars, slaying as many as possible. Others choose to become shepherds, luring desperate folk to the tower so they may meet a terrible end and possibly grow Corvus' army. A skilled few choose secrecy, a hidden agent among a powerful group, slowly nudging them to the brink of death and despair. Or, better yet, the senseless killing of others.
The Lord of Crows doesn't oversee much of what his Shadar-kai do on the Material. However, there are some whom he watches over and, on occasion, speaks to; from beyond a crow's dead black eyes, he could be watching. For most, Corvus' trust in his creations is all that's needed; a faith that his willpower be like a ceaseless flame, a mantle for any of his treasured sons and daughters to carry into battle, knowing they're doing as he wishes. No matter how many outsiders tell them otherwise.

Basic Information

Anatomy

The physical appearance of the Shadar-kai is closest to that of the Elves. They stand around the same height as humans on average, ranging from under 5 feet tall to just over 6 feet. Similar to their elven counterparts, the Shadar-kai are often slender by nature. With few differences between males and females in terms of height and weight. However, while an elven form is the most common, there is a decent percentage of Shadar-kai who more closely resemble humans, often slightly taller than their counterparts and without the pointed ears one might expect.
That said, the similarities between these races end there. Hailing from the Shadowfell itself and altered by the Lord of Crows, the Shadar-kai exhibit a few key differences which make them stand out from a crowd. Most notably, their pale blue skin and solid black eyes. Their skin tones comprise a range of colorless complexions, from a pale white to a pale blue, almost akin to a dead body. Hardly ever will these darken due to the dark nature of the Shadowfell. Additionally, a Shadar-kai is born with relatively normal eyes, as you might expect of a human child. However, as they age and spend more time in the Shadowlands, these turn to solid black. This shift is one of many gifts or alterations made by Corvus, giving each of his creations the ability to see in total darkness beyond their original capabilities.

Biological Cycle

Shadar-kai age similarly to humans but reach physical and mental maturity somewhat earlier, allowing even a young Shadar-kai to fight when called on. Once mature, they will continue to age but at a much slower pace, often showing few differences between 20 years old and 150. Owing to their elven ancestry, these shadow fey live long lives, anywhere from 400 to 500 years. That is, however, somewhat shorter than the lives of other elves, whether that be from the Shadowfell or simply evolution over the ages spent within its dark landscape.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Regarding others of their race, the Shadar-kai are egalitarian in every sense. In times of combat, the best among them will rise to become officers and leaders, but once the fighting has ceased, they become no more than they once were. All are equal in the Spire's shadow.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Found primarily in the Shadowfell, but many have ventured into the Material in recent times.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Similar to elves, they are capable of seeing in shades of grey while in total darkness. And clearly with only minimal light. On top of this, to aid in combating forces within the Shadowfell, Corvus gifted them with some magical capabilities. Firstly, a thin, intangible, and immaterial shroud of darkness surrounds a Shadar-kai, helping them brush off Necrotic magic and plagues. Secondly, they received the gift of teleportation. Though limited in its range, a Shadar-kai can move instantly from one point to another, leaving a small cloud of darkness in their wake. Using this gift can be draining and, as such, may only be performed once before a rest is needed.

Civilization and Culture

Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals

A Shadar-kai will often choose to tattoo themselves in solid black ink. Placed primarily on their faces, they hold a meaning unique to each Shadar-kai. These tattoos are small, with larger ones lining their arms and legs if they so choose. Each is done with great precision and care as such a permanent fixture is hardly taken lightly. Great stories and symbology can be found throughout each piece of art, but getting a Shadar-kai to tell you is by far the hardest part.
Another common observation made regarding the Shadar-kai and how they fight is their choice of weaponry. Preferring to use some of the cruelest arms ever conceived, they will often be seen with long-chain whips spiked throughout and with a razor's edge tip. Some go as far as to utilize torturer's tools on the battlefield. As impractical as it may seem, their proficiency with some of these can be terrifying.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Elf

Origin/Ancestry

Shadowfellian

Lifespan

450 years

Average Height

5 - 6 feet

Average Weight

110 - 160 pounds

Average Physique

Slender yet toned. Shadar-kai are trained from birth for combat in service of the Obsidian Throne. As such, they will keep themselves agile and prepared throughout their entire lifespan.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Colorless complexions range from pale white to pale blue, though some appear more purple in some light.