Elves of Warlderia
Elves are an ancient and enduring people, whose history stretches far beyond that of most other races. They are widely believed to have come to Warlderia over a thousand years ago, from a place now lost to memory—or deliberately forgotten.
In the early ages, the Elves stood apart from humanity: wiser, more advanced, and possessed of knowledge and power that others could not match. Many among them believed it was their duty to guide humanity—to raise it from its primitive beginnings and lead it toward a more enlightened existence.
In time, many Elves came to see this as a grave mistake.
A Fallen Influence
Once, Elven influence extended across much of the known world. Their cities, knowledge, and culture shaped entire regions, and their authority was rarely challenged.
That age has passed.
Today, the Elves are no longer a dominant power. Their realms are scattered and diminished:
- Isolated forest enclaves and hidden settlements
- Island domains removed from the wider world
- Great but fading strongholds, such as Radiant Melthurian
- Fragmented political structures, with no true central authority
The old High Senate still exists in name, but holds little real power. Each Elven domain now governs itself.
The Elves remember what they once were—and cannot ignore what they have become.
The Higher Wars
The decline of Elven power is closely tied to the Higher Wars, a series of conflicts that reshaped the balance of the world.
During these wars, humanity rose against Elven dominance. Whether driven by ambition, resentment, or survival, humans proved numerous, adaptable, and relentless.
- Elven forces won many battles
- But they could not stem the tide of human expansion
- Their unity fractured under prolonged conflict
In the end, the Elves did not fall completely—but they were forced into retreat.
Those who survived adapted, withdrew, or endured. The legacy of the wars continues to shape relations between Elves and humans to this day.
Elves and Humanity
Relations between Elves and humans are complex and often strained.
- Elves tend to view humans as short-lived, impulsive, and unpredictable
- Humans often admire Elven grace, knowledge, and longevity
- Mutual understanding is rare
Many Elves who deal with humans are courteous, even well-meaning—but often distant, and at times condescending. To them, human efforts to emulate Elven culture or language can seem naïve or incomplete.
To humans, Elves are both admired and misunderstood.
Physiology
Elves are physically distinct from humans, though broadly similar in form.
- Taller on average, with a slender and graceful build
- Angular features, high cheekbones, and almond-shaped eyes
- Long, pointed ears
- Fair complexions, with a wide range of hair colours
- Striking eye colours, including blue, green, hazel, and rarer shades
They are often considered exceptionally attractive by human standards.
Elves do not sleep in the same way as other peoples. Instead, they enter a four-hour trance, allowing them to rest while remaining partially aware. As a result, they are less affected by fatigue and certain magical effects.
They also age differently:
- Physical appearance changes little after maturity
- With age, they grow physically weaker but mentally sharper
- Their long lives contribute to their cautious and reflective nature
Elven Kindreds
There are several distinct Elven kindreds, all believed to share a common origin:
- High Elves: The most numerous and culturally dominant; often considered the “pure” lineage
- Wood Elves: Closely tied to forests and natural environments
- Snow Elves: Adapted to colder, harsher climates
- Wild (Feral) Elves: Less structured, often living outside formal society
- Drow: Rare, feared, and poorly understood
The relationships between these groups vary, and not all recognise the authority or traditions of the High Elves.
Culture and Society
Elven culture is refined, deliberate, and deeply rooted in tradition.
- Strong emphasis on knowledge, art, and mastery
- High standards of personal presentation and conduct
- Long-term thinking shaped by extended lifespans
- Preference for stability over rapid change
Their longevity shapes everything they do. Decisions are rarely rushed, and consequences are considered across decades or even centuries.
This often leads to a perceived detachment from the concerns of shorter-lived peoples.
Language
Elves speak a complex and expressive language, rich in nuance and subtlety.
- Difficult for outsiders to master fully
- Contains layers of meaning and cultural context
- Multiple dialects exist across different Elven communities
A simplified form,often called “petty Elven” by true Elves, is used by educated humans and was once the language of the Kaegorian Empire.
Even now:
- It remains a language of scholarship and ceremony
- Fluency is considered a mark of education among humans
Elves, however, rarely consider non-Elven speakers truly proficient.
In Play
Elves are best used as:
- Keepers of knowledge and history
- Isolated powers with their own agendas
- Allies who require patience and trust
- Observers who act only when necessary
They are not a dominant force in the current age, but their influence remains significant—particularly in matters of magic, history, and long-term strategy.
A People Out of Time
The Elves of Warlderia are not what they once were.
They remember an age of dominance and purpose, and now live in a world where that age has passed. Some seek to preserve what remains. Others withdraw from it entirely.
A few may still believe they have a role to play.
Whether they are right—or whether their time has truly ended—remains to be seen.
Elven Realms