Elf

"Ho, there! What brings you to the forest?"
Graceful as a treebough in the wind, the elf leaned backwards from the branch and tumbled into the air. They fell freely down from the canopy and it looked as though they would crash hard but, after a few words and a flash of green light, they lithely floated the last few feet, boots touching soundlessly on the springy grass. A delicate blade hung at their waist, a longbow slung casually over their shoulder - for now, at least - and a wooden cuff, gleaming from their pointed ear, was their only ornament.
"Friend of nature, or foe of mine?" they asked.

— Janet Forbes

Elves: an Overview

Both part of this world, and yet apart from it, Elves may seem to outsiders like ethereal beings of otherworldly elegance. Whether in cities or deep within ancient woods, their realms are one with nature, as shimmering with timeless beauty and elegance as themselves. Elves cherish the natural and supernatural worlds, and highly prize the creation of beautiful things, from music to poetry.

Physical Description

Lithe and delicate, elves range from just under 5 feet to around 6 feet, with little difference between sexes. Notably slender, they usually weigh between 100 to 145 pounds. Despite their size, Elven skills with bow and swords are legendary, and informed by deadly strategy, making them formidable enemies and valuable allies.

Elven skin tones range from dark to tan to blue-ish pale, as well as, occasionally, unique hues of copper and bronze. Their hair may be natural colors or vibrant greens, and their eyes are captivating pools of liquid gold or silver. They have minimal body hair (Elves cannot grow beards). They are known for simple, elegant clothing in natural hues, and jewelry that mimics that natural world.

Lifespan and outlook: a Perspective of the Ages

Extremely long-lived, Elves' lifespans can stretch beyond 700 years. While some long-lived species may become surly and set in their ways over time, Elves tend to remain amused and curious, especially by the antics of shorter-lived species. They are cautious both in forming friendships and making enemies, which can lead other species to view them as aloof. However, if insulted, a grudge can last for centuries. Serious affronts against themselves, or their beloved environments, are met with severe and carefully-calculated retribution. Generally, though, they prefer diplomacy and compromise over violence.

Families and Societies: At one with nature

Elves may live in secluded villages, artfully hidden within forests, or in shining cities. At one with nature, they thrive by hunting, foraging, and gardening. Their understanding of the natural world, enhanced by their magical prowess, eliminates the need for aggressive land cultivation.

Elves often dedicate themselves for centuries to a craft, and are gifted artisans, creating some of the finest crafted garments and art. These are traded for necessary goods and metals, which they have no desire to mine themselves.

Outside their realms, Elves can often be found as wandering minstrels, artists, or scholars. They are highly-sought as advisors, academics, librarians and even tutors for the children of other species, as they have several life-times worth of knowledge to share!

Naming Traditions of Elves

Elven society prizes personal freedom highly, even to the point of choosing when - although it’s usually around century old - they declare themselves as adults. At this point, an elf declares their new name, gender and personhood to the world. As children, Elves tend to have nicknames based on the natural world. When they become adults, they select their own name, and often combine their parents' names into a Family name which honors them both.

Reasons to go adventuring: Wanderers and Protectors

Elves who embark on personal adventures are often driven by a deep sense of wanderlust, a hunger to explore and discover the richness of the world around them. They tend to find other species’ societies overly-structured and controlling, yet paradoxically fleeting; they seek professions that afford them freedom and autonomy, such as traveling scholars, minstrels, or healers. Elves relish the chance to hone their skills and knowledge, particularly their martial and magical abilities, through their adventures. Many will often be stirred to join a cause that defends freedom or nature, but will leave once the problems have been resolved.