Auren'del, the Highborne

Physical Description

  The Auren'del are majestic and refined, known for their regal appearance and innate connection to magic. They typically have fair and flawless skin, often with a slight ethereal glow, conveying an otherworldly grace. They are known for their tall and slender build, standing elegantly above most other humanoids as they move with a fluid and dignified grace. Their facial features are sharp and refined, characterized by high cheekbones, pointed ears that taper to delicate points, and expressive, almond-shaped eyes. Their eyes come in a range of striking colors, often vibrant blues, greens, or purples, reflecting their connection to magical forces.

The hair of Auren'del elves is lustrous and fine, and it can vary from shades of platinum and silver to rich gold or even vibrant hues of blue or violet. The Auren'del often wear their hair long and intricately styled, adorned with intricate jewelry or precious gemstones that complement their regal attire which consists of elaborate and finely crafted clothing, often made from enchanted fabrics that shimmer with magical energy.

 

Society

  Auren'del are distinguished by their commitment to the wisdom of their ancestors, and a unique approach to necromancy. Rather than delving into the darker aspects of this magical art, the Auren'del employ necromancy as a means of communing with their ancient ancestors; they use their abilities to seek guidance and fostering a deeper understanding of their history. The customs of the Auren'del are bizarre and off putting to outsiders, often causing difficulties when they venture outside of thier isolated cities into more populated areas. The few Auren'del cities that are known about to the larger world appear to be built around ziggurat like structures at the intersections of powerful ley lines adorned with ethereal lights that flicker in harmony with the spirits of their forebears. Auren'del often bear markings on their skin that glow softly when they engage in the necromantic rituals of their society. These rituals involve intricate dances and incantations designed to attune themselves to the spiritual realm to allow for better communion with their ancestors.

The spirits of the elve's ancestors act as mentors and guides, imparting their magical knowledge and wisdom to the living. Through these communions, the Auren'del have become exceptionally skilled in various magical disciplines. The ethereal guidance from their ancestors refines their spellcasting abilities, making them adept at healing, divination, and protective magic. The Auren'del view their connection to the spirits as a sacred duty, ensuring that the knowledge and values of their ancestors are not lost. The spirits, in turn, guide them toward paths of enlightenment. This cultural reliance on necromancy has transformed the living Auren'del into a society deeply attuned to both the arcane and the spiritual, fostering a harmonious balance between the living and the dead. The magic they wield is a force for good, an extension of their commitment to upholding the ideals and virtues passed down through generations of their ancestors.

 

Religion

  The religious practices of the high elves are deeply intertwined with their necromantic traditions and the reverence they hold for their ancestral spirits. Their rituals are elaborate and ceremonial, conducted in sacred spaces adorned with crystalline structures and ethereal lights that symbolize the presence of the spirits. These practices are not rooted in fear or morbidity but are instead a celebration of life, wisdom, and the enduring connection between the living and the deceased. One of the central religious ceremonies is the "Rite of Soulbinding," an event that coincides with the alignment of all of the moons. During Soulbinding ceremonies, these elves gather in communal spaces to perform intricate dances, chants, and necromantic invocations. This ritual is believed to strengthen the connection between the living and the spirits, allowing for a more profound exchange of wisdom and guidance.

High elves also engage in ancestor veneration, maintaining shrines and altars dedicated to specific ancestors or revered figures from their past. These spaces are adorned with symbolic offerings, such as enchanted crystals, flowers, and artifacts that hold significance to the departed. Through these practices, high elves believe they can honor their ancestors' memories and draw inspiration from their enduring legacy. Necromancy, as practiced by these elves, serves as a means of communication with the spiritual realm rather than a dark art associated with the undead. The use of necromancy is reserved for these sacred rituals, and it is seen as a tool for seeking guidance, healing, and protection from their ancestors.

Overall, these religious practices are a harmonious blend of magic, spirituality, and reverence for the wisdom passed down through generations. The rituals serve to strengthen the bonds between the living and the spirits, fostering a culture that values guidance, benevolence, and the eternal connection to the luminous legacy of their ancestors.

 

Adventurers

  High elves might leave their sacred enclave to embark on adventures for several reasons, each influenced by their cultural values and individual aspirations:

• Quest for Wisdom and Knowledge: High elves are deeply committed to wisdom and guidance from their ancestors. An elf might set out on a quest to explore the world, seeking new insights and knowledge that can be brought back to enrich their community. They may believe that firsthand experiences and encounters with other cultures can enhance their understanding of the spiritual and magical realms.
• Spiritual Pilgrimage: A high elf might embark on a spiritual pilgrimage, guided by the whispers of their ancestors or celestial signs. They could be driven by a prophetic vision or a sense that there is a greater purpose awaiting them beyond the confines of their enclave. The journey itself might be seen as a test or a rite of passage to deepen their connection with the ancestral spirits.
• Protection of Ancestral Knowledge: One might leave to safeguard their ancestral knowledge or mystical artifacts from potential threats. Understanding that certain magical insights are crucial for the well-being of their people, an elf could venture into the world to ensure the preservation and protection of these valuable resources.
• Alliance and Diplomacy: In the pursuit of harmony and understanding, an elf might journey to establish alliances with other races or magical beings. By fostering diplomatic relations, they hope to create a network of mutual support and cooperation that benefits both their enclave and the diverse cultures they encounter.
• A Call to Aid: The ancestral spirits might communicate a pressing need for assistance beyond the confines of the elven enclave. Whether it's to help a neighboring community facing a magical threat or to prevent a greater calamity, the elf might embark on an adventure as a guardian guided by the spiritual insights received.

Ultimately, the decision to leave the safety of their enclave for adventure is likely rooted in a balance between a commitment to their community, their reverence for ancestral wisdom, and a deep-seated curiosity about the mysteries of the world beyond their mysterious cities.