Paheiríen-Elves

Paheiríen-Elves are native to western and central Sjorgús Mountains, west of Svarkó Pass, beyond which is the territory of the Gartaraz-Dwarves and Dúnaraz-Dwarves. Once found as far as the border of Núrak and Larúnas to the west, many of their villages and Snake Monasteries were destroyed by Dragons or abandoned after the initial attacks, so nowadays the Paheiríen-Elves only inhabit the central part of the mountain ridge. Most Paheiríen-Elves are simple farmers, shepherds and cowherds, producing both for their families and the local snake monasteries, whose monks and nuns in turn defend the villagers against bandits and wild animals.
Their largest settlement is the small town of Tóaþril near Svarkó Pass, where many travellers rest before continuing on their way north or south.

Culture

Apparel

Most paheiríenic clothing resembles what's worn in Núrak and Zirdinóin, consisting of woolen long-sleeved tunic worn under a short-sleeved jacket of sorts and long trousers for men, and a long-sleeved dress for women. During summer, especially at lower altitudes near Nemirkía, men adopt a lighter sleeveless tunic. Sheepskin shoes or boots are worn depending on the season.

Cuisine

Paheiríenic cuisine consists mostly of simple fried bread, cow- and goat cheese and vegetables. Dumplings filled with meat and vegetables are usually served during festivals. The western Sjorgús Mountains were once famed for their wineyards, but since their destruction, herbal teas have become the norm along with imported wine and ale.

Magic studies

Aside from simple light and wind spells, the use of magic among the Paheiríen-Elves is mostly restricted to the snake monasteries, where monks and nuns use healing magic in tandem with local medicinal plants. They are also among the few who are taught how to use magic staves, mostly to defend the monasteries and villagers in times of need.

Religion

Paheiríenic religion is centered around the local Snake Oracles- and monasteries, but the whole mountain range is considered sacred among the inhabitants, believed to be shed skin of the primordial snake Svarkó, whose battle with a primordial bird shaped the world into its current form. Caves are especially sacred, as Svarkó is believed to have retreated deep within the earth after the battle, which is why snake oracles perform their rituals in underground chambers in the deepest parts of the monasteries, many of which are built over cave entrances.
Aside from the cult of Svarkó, other deities are widely worshipped, along with local spirits of certain springs, mountain peaks, rivers and other notable landmarks. Notable deities include Hirdor, a god of healing, and Síó, goddess of magic.