Sea Elf

Basic Information

Anatomy

Sea Elves possess lithe, streamlined bodies built for aquatic living, with webbed hands and feet that aid in swimming. Their skin often shimmers with a faint iridescence, reflecting the colors of their watery environment. Pointed ears are more elongated than those of other elves, adapted to picking up subtle sounds underwater. Their hair comes in hues reminiscent of ocean flora, ranging from seaweed green to coral pink or deep blue, often appearing to float gently around them even on land. Their eyes are large and reflective, with a second, translucent eyelid that aids in underwater vision.

Genetics and Reproduction

Sea Elves reproduce similarly to other elves, with long courtships and deep bonds formed over years. Offspring mature slowly, reaching adulthood at about a century. Their genes carry traits that reflect the sea, such as their hydrodynamic form and resistance to cold damage, making them uniquely suited to marine environments. Sea Elf offspring often exhibit a blend of their parents’ hair and skin tones, and children are raised communally, with an emphasis on teaching the ways of the ocean.

Ecology and Habitats

Sea Elves thrive in coastal and underwater habitats, particularly along the Doradoel coastline of the Gilded Ocean. The golden light refracting through the water enhances the beauty of their home, and they make settlements in coral reefs, underwater caverns, and submerged Aasimar ruins. Their interaction with the environment is one of careful stewardship, often working alongside aquatic animals to maintain the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Sea Elves avoid overfishing and ensure that their presence does not harm the vibrant underwater flora.

Behaviour

Sea Elves exhibit a calm and harmonious demeanor, reflecting the ebb and flow of the tides. They are deeply connected to the sea, with an intrinsic respect for its power and beauty. Despite their serene exterior, they are capable of fierce defense when their homes are threatened. Social bonds are important, and they form strong community ties, living with a sense of shared purpose. They are known to be thoughtful and deliberate, preferring mediation and patience over rash action, but the call of the ocean can also inspire in them a sense of adventurous wanderlust.

Additional Information

Average Intelligence

Comparable to other elves, with a high capacity for abstract thought and an affinity for magic and song.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Sea Elves possess acute vision adapted to low-light conditions, enabling them to see clearly underwater and in dim environments. Their sense of hearing is also enhanced, tuned to detect minute changes in pressure or sound waves, allowing them to sense approaching predators or shifts in ocean currents. Additionally, they have a natural affinity with marine life, able to sense the presence and intentions of aquatic creatures through a subtle empathic link.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Names are often lyrical and evoke the sea, with soft and rolling syllables. Examples include Nereon, Elaria, and Thalorin. Surnames are typically derived from natural elements, such as "of the Coral," "Wavecaller," or "Pearlborn."

Beauty Ideals

Sea Elves value symmetry, grace, and features reminiscent of the sea. Hair that resembles the vivid hues of underwater life or the deep blues of the ocean is considered beautiful, and eyes that glint like sunlight on water are highly prized. Jewelry made from pearls, shells, and delicate seaweed is worn to enhance their natural allure.

Gender Ideals

There is fluidity in Sea Elf gender roles, with an emphasis on harmony and balance. Both males and females engage in hunting, exploring, and spellcraft. Leadership is based on wisdom and connection to the sea, rather than gender, and individuals are free to express themselves in a manner that best represents their spirit.

Courtship Ideals

Courtship is a long, ritualized process that often involves gifts of beautifully carved shells or enchanted stones. Suitors serenade each other with songs that capture the essence of their love and make offerings to the ocean, symbolizing their intention to protect and cherish their partner.

Relationship Ideals

Relationships are built on deep trust and understanding. Life partnerships are common, though Sea Elves respect the tides of change and allow for unions to shift naturally over time. Love is celebrated with communal feasts and blessings from the sea.

Common Etiquette Rules

Respect for the ocean is paramount. Sea Elves greet each other with a gentle bow, and it is customary to offer a small token to the sea before starting a voyage. Interrupting others is frowned upon, and patience in conversation is a virtue. Hospitality is taken seriously, and guests are treated with warmth and generosity.

Common Dress Code

Garments are made from seaweed fibers, sharkskin, or enchanted fish scales, designed to be practical for both land and sea. Armor is crafted from lightweight coral or magically treated shell. Clothing is adorned with pearls, luminescent stones, and other marine treasures.

Culture and Cultural Heritage

Art, music, and dance are integral to Sea Elf culture, often inspired by the ocean’s rhythms. They craft delicate sculptures from driftwood and sea glass and perform dances that mimic the flow of water. Oral histories are passed down through songs and sagas.

Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals

The Festival of the First Tide is celebrated at the beginning of each year, with elaborate dances and offerings to ocean deities. Rituals are performed before setting sail or embarking on a hunt, asking for the sea’s blessing.

Common Taboos

Disrespecting the ocean, overharvesting marine life, or polluting the waters are considered grave offenses. Taking from a shipwreck without permission from the sea spirits is seen as inviting misfortune.

History

The Sea Elves have a long history entwined with the ocean, having ventured from their ancestral fey forests to the waters of the Material Plane. They settled along the Gilded Ocean centuries before the 2nd Pandora War, living peacefully among the corals and exploring the ruins of Doradoel. Their culture has been shaped by the ebb and flow of the tides, and they have woven their histories with myths of ocean gods and great aquatic leviathans.

Common Myths and Legends

Stories tell of a great Sea Dragon named Zarmiel, who guards the deepest trenches of the Gilded Ocean and holds the knowledge of the ancient world. Another legend speaks of the Gilded Isles, a mythical paradise that lies beyond the reach of even the bravest Sea Elves, said to be a haven of lost treasures and undying magic.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Elf

Scientific Name

Sylvanae Maritimus

Lifespan

Up to 750 years

Average Height

5 - 6 feet tall

Average Weight

100-160 pounds

Average Physique

Lean and graceful, optimized for swimming with well-defined muscle tone. They have high endurance and can move effortlessly in the water.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Pale to deep shades of blue, green, or seafoam, sometimes with a metallic sheen. Body markings often resemble wave patterns or coral formations, with some sporting natural tattoos of bioluminescent algae.