Elves

Elves, enchanting beings of ethereal beauty and grace, stand as a quintessential archetype of the Fae Genus. They are closely related to fairies, pixies, dwarfs, shapeshifters and sprites and can live for several thousand years. Endowed with keen intellect and a profound mastery of magic, elves epitomize wisdom and cunning with libraries all over the globe containing elven knowledge.
Like their dwarven relatives, Elves are known for their craftsmanship. It is woven into the very fabric of elven society, their skilled hands shaping wonders that rival the most intricate of dwarven inventions. From delicate trinkets imbued with enchantments to majestic structures that fit seamlessly with nature's grandeur, their creations stand as testaments to their unparalleled craftsmanship and artistic prowess. Elves harbor a deep-seated reverence for the natural world. In ancient times they could be found deep within forests or beside river banks and lakes.
After the War of Ashes and the relocation to Majjia by the mage Merlin, the average lifespan of Majjian elves was significantly shortened. Majjian elves now have an average lifespan slightly longer than humans, typically around 100 years.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Elves share many anatomical similarities with humans, but there are some distinct features that set them apart. The most notable difference between elves and humans is the shape of their ears. Elves possess long, pointed ears that taper to a delicate point, giving them a distinctively elegant appearance.

Genetics and Reproduction

Elven longevity is a dominant genetic trait. Even hybrids typically inherit a significantly extended lifespan compared to humans. Magical abilities are highly heritable, with offspring inheriting a blend of their parents' magical strengths. This results in a diverse range of magical talents within any given elven community. Traits such as pointed ears, eye color, and heightened senses are dominant. Elven features often manifest strongly even in mixed ancestry. The trait of soul resilience is also inherited, making hybrids more resistant to soul corruption than other non-elven beings. Some elves are born with a natural affinity for a specific element (e.g., fire, water, earth, air), which shapes their magical abilities.
Elven reproduction differs from that of humans in several key aspects, influenced by their long lifespans and magical nature. Elves have a long reproductive cycle, with the ability to conceive spanning several centuries. However, the actual frequency of childbirth is low, with long intervals between births. The gestation period for elves is significantly longer than for humans, typically lasting around two years. This extended period allows for the development of their enhanced physical and magical traits.
Elves can reproduce with other species, though hybrids inherit a mix of traits. For example, an elf-human hybrid might have a longer lifespan and some magical abilities but not as pronounced as a full elf. Hybrids are usually accepted within elven society, provided they respect elven customs and traditions. They often serve as bridges between different species, facilitating understanding and cooperation.

Growth Rate & Stages

Given that Majjian elves have an average lifespan slightly longer than humans, typically around 100 years, their growth rate and stages align more closely with humans.

1. Childhood (0-18 years): Similar to humans, elven childhood spans from birth to around 18 years old. During this time, they grow physically and begin their education in basic skills, including magic and cultural traditions.
2. Adolescence (18-25 years): This stage marks the transition from childhood to adulthood. Elves undergo further education and training in their chosen magical disciplines and crafts. They begin to develop their identities and roles within elven society.
3. Young Adulthood (25-50 years): Elves in this stage are considered young adults. They solidify their skills, take on more responsibilities, and may pursue specialized training or professions such as artisans, scholars, or warriors.
4. Adulthood (50-80 years): Elves in adulthood contribute actively to their society. They may hold leadership positions, mentor younger elves, or continue to hone their magical abilities and craftsmanship.
5. Elderhood (80-100+ years): Elder elves are respected for their wisdom and experience. They often serve as advisors, historians, and keepers of cultural knowledge. Their role is crucial in maintaining the continuity of elven traditions and guiding the community.

Ecology and Habitats

Ancient Times (Before the War of Ashes):

Elves were once deeply intertwined with the natural world on the planet Earth. They were commonly found in the following habitats:

• Ancient Forest Canopies: Elves thrived in the lush canopies of ancient forests, where they lived harmoniously with the flora and fauna. Their homes were often built high among the trees, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
• Mountainous Regions: Some elven communities preferred the solitude and rugged beauty of mountainous regions. They constructed hidden sanctuaries and settlements within caverns and cliffs, attuned to the elemental energies of the mountains.
• Lakeshores and Riversides: Along pristine lakeshores and beside flowing rivers, elves maintained serene settlements. These locations offered both natural beauty and a connection to the life-giving waters, which were integral to their magical practices and daily life.

Modern Times (On Planet Majjia):

In the current era, Majjian elves have adapted to urban life within the 13 United Kingdoms of Majjia. They reside in cities that blend advanced magical infrastructure with natural elements, reminiscent of their ancestral habitats. Elven architecture, characterized by organic forms and harmonious integration with nature, stands as a testament to their craftsmanship and reverence for the environment.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Elves, like humans, are omnivores, meaning they consume a balanced diet of plants and animals. This dietary flexibility allows them to adapt to various environments and seasons. Elves are proficient hunters, using their keen senses and agility to track and capture prey in their natural habitats. They hunt respectfully, honoring the natural balance of ecosystems. In ancient times, hunting was a crucial skill for survival, providing them with meat and fur for clothing. Over centuries, elves have developed advanced magical farming techniques. These methods harness natural energies and elemental magic to enhance crop yields and promote sustainable agriculture. By harmonizing with the land, elves ensure that their farming practices are both efficient and ecologically responsible. Food holds cultural significance among elves, often tied to rituals, celebrations, and communal gatherings. They have a rich culinary tradition, blending natural ingredients with magical enhancements to create nourishing and flavorful dishes.

Behaviour

Elves are very complex creatures with a deep and varied history. They exhibit a profound respect and harmony with the natural world. This reverence influences their behavior, shaping their interactions with plants, animals, and ecosystems. They strive to maintain balance and sustainability in all aspects of life, honoring the interconnectedness of all living beings. Elves are highly intelligent and artistry and craftsmanship are integral to elven culture. Elves are known for their exquisite art, music, literature, and architectural marvels, which often reflect their deep spiritual connection to nature and magic. Every creation is imbued with meaning and symbolism, celebrating their heritage and creativity.
Despite their shortened lifespan on Majjia, Majjian elves possess centuries-old wisdom and a keen understanding of history and magic. They cherish ancestral knowledge passed down through generations, serving as custodians of tradition and guardians of ancient lore. Elves are adaptable beings, capable of embracing change while preserving their core values and traditions. They harness magical abilities and technological advancements to thrive in modern urban environments, blending innovation with respect for the natural world.
Elves can also be arrogant and even cruel when the mood strikes them as they are some of the most powerful beings in the universe. There have been many elves whose names went down in the analogue of history, not because of the good they have done but because of the chaos and destruction they left in their wake. Even Majjian elves with their extremely short lifespans have left profound marks on the planet they call home for better or worse.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Elves typically have fine, delicate features that contribute to their ethereal appearance. Their facial structure is often characterized by high cheekbones, softly angular jawlines, and smooth, flawless skin that seems to glow faintly with inner vitality. Elf eyes often come in a wide range of colors, from deep hues of green and blue to shades of silver, violet, and amber. One of the most distinctive features of elves is their long and pointed ears. These ears taper to a delicate point, adding to their graceful and otherworldly appearance. Elves have hair that ranges in color from shades of blonde, brown, and black to more exotic hues like silver or even shades with subtle iridescence. Their hair is usually worn long and flowing.

Average Intelligence

Elves are highly intelligent beings, renowned for their sharp intellect and deep understanding of magic, history, and the natural world. Elves excel in various intellectual pursuits, including magic, artistry, craftsmanship, and scholarly endeavors. Their ability to innovate and adapt, combined with their profound respect for tradition and ancestral wisdom, underscores their intellectual prowess and adaptability in both ancient and modern contexts.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

While Elves have excellent hearing and eyesight, picking up on colors and sounds that humans can’t, they are known for their hyperawareness. They are incredibly aware of their surroundings at all times and can even pick up on the subtlest changes of magical energy and signatures in the air. Elves are the species most likely to have visions of the past, present, and future. Elves can just work into a room and know when something terrible has happened there. Elves also have incredible magical abilities capable of performing spells that would take another person an absurd amount of energy to pull off with ease. Elves have a natural affinity for elemental and spirit magic.

Unique Magical Abilities

• Nature's Embrace: Elves can commune with plants and animals, accelerating growth, healing injuries, and understanding their needs. This ability allows them to maintain lush, vibrant environments.
• Mystic Ward: Elves can create powerful protective barriers around their homes and territories. These wards can repel intruders, hide areas from detection, and nullify hostile magic.

Soul

Elven souls like most mortal souls are a mix of positive and negative energy, however they are extremely resistant to Soul Corruption and Soul Destruction despite this. Elves, as one of the seven most powerful species, have an otherworldly aura to them often described as angelic. It’s important to note that an elf’s body is extremely durable which means their magical core can hold far more soul energy than most other species. Their average blood-magic ratio is 50-75% making them very, very powerful.

Blood

Elven blood has the consistency of human blood but looks like liquid gold, like most creatures even blood holds a significant portion of their soul energy in it making their blood a useful potion ingredient.

Scientific Name

Faeus Sylvanus

Lifespan

Earth Elves: 2,000-5,000, Majjian Elves: 100

Average Height

Male: 6 to 7 feet (180 to 210 cm) Female: 5'10" to 6'8" (178 to 203 cm)

Average Weight

Male: 140 to 180 pounds (64 to 82 kg) Female: 120 to 160 pounds (54 to 73 kg)

Average Physique

Elves typically have a slender and graceful physique, reflecting their agility and dexterity. They are usually tall compared to humans, with fine-boned features and a naturally elegant posture. Their physical appearance often embodies a blend of ethereal beauty and practicality, allowing them to move swiftly and gracefully through their environments.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Elves typically have a natural skin tone that ranges from fair to a deep dark rich brown. Their skin often has a faint, subtle glow that enhances their ethereal appearance. Elves have been known to adorn themselves with intricate, symbolic designs that hold personal or cultural significance.

Geographic Distribution

• Earth
• Majjia
• The Island of Dray

Related Organizations

• The 13 United Kingdoms of Majjia
• The Central Council

Related Ethnicities

• Cameloonian Draylian
• Nomadic Draylian