Elves

Basic Information

Anatomy

Elves have a similar build and anatomy to humans.

Genetics and Reproduction

Elven reproduction is near identical to that of humans save that the gestational period lasts 12-13 months, a reflection of the race's slower maturation.

Growth Rate & Stages

Elves mature at a rate roughly half that of humans, reaching physical maturity at the age of 40-50 years. After this, aging slows to a rate nearly ten times slower than that of humans, allowing for lifespans up to 1000 years.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Elves are omnivorous. They have developed sophisticated agricultural practices and domesticated a number of species.
Varieties of rice are a dietary staple throughout the empire, usually used as a base for more complex dishes. The size of the empire, and the ancient cultures it has absorbed, mean that regional dishes and tastes are vast and varied. From the complex dishes of the capitol city, to the simple fare of rural areas. The warm spices of the far south and the fruity flavors of the tropics.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Compared to humans, elves generally have softer or more delicate features. Rounder faces with less pronounced bone structure and narrow eyes. The most pronounced difference is their elongated, pointed ears, which can reach up to five inches in length.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Elves are native to the continent of Feihon in the southeast of the world, and have spread across the entirety of this continent. A colony was established on the southeastern tip of Egera, and they can now be found in most parts of the continent, though their numbers outside the colony and its border regions are few.

Average Intelligence

Elven intelligence is on par with that of humans.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

On average elves have marginally sharper vision and hearing than humans. Their long ears are somewhat mobile and allow for better direction of sound to the ear drums.

Civilization and Culture

Average Technological Level

Elves are generally considered to be more technologically advanced than the other races they interact with - namely humans. They have made great advances in the use of magic for medicine and for the construction of their cities.

Major Language Groups and Dialects

The most commonly spoken elven language is Lainteran, the native language of the elven empire's seat of power in Laintera. This is the language that most outside of the empire refer to simply as "Elven".
In the outlying states of Ascia and Aswea other languages and dialects can be heard, but the empire has made great efforts to suppress any language other than Lainteran within its borders. Within another generation or two Ascian may live only in historical records. Aswean, however, still mounts an active resistance against the empire and holding onto their language is integral to their fight.

Common Etiquette Rules

Elves value politeness and formality, as well as patience. All but the most informal of interactions are governed by rules and expectations of behavior.

Common Dress Code

Elven dress is modest yet elegant. Traditional fashions favor multiple layers of loose-fitting robe-like garments, wide skirts for women and loose pants for men. In colder weather cropped jackets with high collars and wide sleeves are more common than coats or cloaks.
Nobility and wealthier citizens use fashion as a way to show their status. In addition to the use of finer fabrics, the clothing of the upper classes features more layers and more complex designs. Skirts with many layers of richly dyed fabrics and tunics with detailed embroidery are popular shows of wealth and stature. The more ostentatious have been known to wear garments with entire scenes painted or embroidered onto them, much as one would expect to see in a tapestry. However, that amount of excess is considered gaudy by most.
The working classes, while following the same style of dress, adopt a more practical style, with fewer layers, shorter ankle-length skirts for women and more fitted sleeves to allow easy movement. Colorful garments are still popular, but embellishments are few.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Many elves view other races and civilizations to be below them, primitive or child-like. However, they maintain peaceful relations with others as it serves their purposes.
Interbreeding with humans and dwarves is known to be possible, but is generally frowned upon and half-elven children can face discrimination in primarily elven areas.

Lifespan

900-1000 years

Average Height

5'5"-6'

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Elves can be seen with a variety of skin and hair colors similar to those of humans, however most common is pale skin with dark hair and dark eyes.

Related Ethnicities

• Ascian Elves
• Aswean Elves
• Kashali Elves
• Lainteran Elves
• Shaelani Elves