Dark Elves
Dark Elves, often misunderstood and shrouded in tales of intrigue, emerge from the enigmatic depths of Dramoor. Recognised by their unique shade and captivating eyes, they flourish in the dimly lit underbelly of the world. Though frequently feared due to age-old tales, there's a depth and richness to their culture that is often overlooked.
Oral traditions hold a prominent place in their culture, preserving tales imbued with wisdom, caution, and wonderment. The concepts of honour and loyalty run deep, with a societal emphasis on unity and togetherness. Ceremonial dances and melodies, often lit by the soft glow of bioluminescent fungi, are central to their festivities.
Being naturally inclined to the underground, Dark Elves reside in extensive, ornate cave systems deep below the Dramoor landscape. These caverns, illuminated by diverse bioluminescent organisms, paint a picture of an ethereal subterranean kingdom.
Opting for the seclusion of their shadowy realms, they've constructed a society that cherishes individual merit as well as collective harmony. Their economic foundation lies in mining precious gems, crafting with exclusive underworld metals, and cultivating fungi and subterranean flora.
Often perceived as enigmatic and reserved, Dark Elves can initially come across as distant. But beneath this exterior lies a steadfast loyalty and deep sense of camaraderie. Their relationships with other races are layered; while they may seem withdrawn, they are not inherently aggressive. A promise made by a Dark Elf is a bond of their word, making them treasured allies and formidable opponents.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Dark Elves are distinguished by their lithe and agile bodies, slightly taller than average humans, with skin tones ranging from deep shades of blue to rich purples.
Biological Traits
Innate Abilites:
- Shadow Manipulation: Dark Elves have an innate ability to merge with the shadows, becoming nearly invisible in dim conditions. This isn't mere concealment, but a profound connection with the darkness.
- Night Vision: Their eyes, reminiscent of a starry night, grant them the capability to discern details in nearly complete darkness.
- Dark Magic: They possess mastery over a unique magical form that draws upon the strength of darkness and shadows. This allows them to craft illusions, manipulate shades, and channel the enigmatic power of the moon.
- Heightened hearing, approx. 3x as sensitive/detailed as humans
- Infra-vision up to 60 feet
- Additional 70% resistance to sleep and all charm related spells.
- Additional 60% resistance to natural poisons, venoms and toxins
- +2 attack bonus when using blades.
- Opponents suffer -2 to surprise rolls within subterranean environments.
Genetics and Reproduction
Dark Elves have similar reproductive patterns to other elven races but tend to have smaller family units.
Growth Rate & Stages
They mature at a similar rate to other elves, reaching adulthood around 100 years and living for several centuries.
Ecology and Habitats
Prefer underground environments, thriving in extensive cave systems adorned with bioluminescent flora.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Omnivorous, with a diet rich in fungi and subterranean plants, supplemented by meats procured from hunting.
Biological Cycle
Follow a nocturnal rhythm, aligning their activities with the phases of the moon and the relative darkness.
Behaviour
Known for their reserved demeanor but exhibit strong loyalty and camaraderie within their communities.
Additional Information
Social Structure
Dark Elf society values individual merit and collective harmony, with a strong emphasis on communal living and shared responsibilities.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Primarily found in the subterranean realms of Dramoor, with some groups inhabiting dense forests or shadowed regions.
Average Intelligence
Comparable to other elven races, known for their strategic thinking and adeptness in magic and shadow arts.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
Names often reflect elements of the night or shadow, with complex family names denoting lineage and heritage.
Major Organizations
Various houses and guilds, each specializing in different aspects of Dark Elf society such as magic, crafting, or exploration.
Beauty Ideals
Valued traits include grace, agility, and mastery in shadow arts. Subtle luminescence or shimmer in their appearance is considered attractive.
Courtship Ideals
Courtship involves intricate rituals and demonstrations of magical and intellectual prowess.
Relationship Ideals
Emphasize deep connections and mutual understanding, often seeking partners who complement their shadowy nature.
Major Language Groups and Dialects
Speak a unique dialect of Elvish, with an emphasis on soft tones and fluid speech patterns, reflecting their affinity for shadows.
Common Etiquette Rules
Value discretion and subtlety in communication, with an emphasis on non-verbal cues and gestures.
Common Dress Code
Prefer attire that blends with their environment, often adorned with elements reflective of their culture like moon symbols or dark gems.
Culture and Cultural Heritage
A civilization with a profound connection to the underground world and the mysteries of the dark.
Common Taboos
Betrayal of trust and breaking of oaths are severely frowned upon, given their emphasis on loyalty.
Common Myths and Legends
Rich folklore featuring tales of moon deities, shadow realms, and legendary heroes who harnessed the power of darkness.
Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
Generally viewed with suspicion by other races due to misunderstandings, but Dark Elves seek to forge alliances based on mutual respect and shared goals.
Dark Elf Trait Bonuses
In the shadowy realms where light seldom intrudes, the Dark Elves of Dramoor have honed their skills in stealth, sorcery, and subterfuge. These enigmatic beings navigate the twilight of their forested and subterranean homes with unmatched grace and acuity. The stat bonuses for Dark Elves encapsulate their ethereal elegance and keen senses, traits that have been refined over millennia to suit their secretive and often misunderstood nature. Dexterity (DEX) +2: Moving with a silent grace through the dense underbrush of their forest homes or the narrow corridors of their underground cities, Dark Elves possess an extraordinary dexterity. This bonus reflects their agility and finesse, allowing them to execute complex maneuvers in combat, adeptly wield a variety of weapons, and perform delicate tasks with ease. Their lithe movements are also crucial in their practice of arcane arts, enabling them to weave spells with precise gestures. Perception (PER) +1: Dark Elves have honed their senses to perceive the slightest disturbances in their surroundings, an essential skill for survival in environments where danger may lurk in every shadow. This bonus signifies their heightened awareness, enabling them to detect hidden foes, navigate through darkness as if it were day, and discern the subtle cues of magic in the air. Their acute perception makes them formidable opponents and invaluable allies, capable of anticipating threats before they manifest.
Genetic Descendants
Scientific Name
Umbrea Dryadalis
Origin/Ancestry
Kasteris Valley
Lifespan
900 years avg., upwards of 1500 years in extreme/rare cases
Average Height
1.6 - 1.8 metres (5' 5" - 6'1") Taller Dark Elves are uncommon.
Average Weight
80 to 99 kilograms (180-220 pounds)
Average Physique
The dark and confined nature of their underground habitat have rendered Dark Elves with a dark complexion, stark white hair and lean and agile bodies.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Their skin tones range from pitch black to slate-grey, with albinoism a rare but possible trait.
