Elani

Keepers of the Ancient Lore

The Elani inhabit a wide range of environments, from deep forests to open grasslands. They are the second-most populous race, and have a diversity of cultures and appearances. Long-lived, they have developed a civilization more advanced than any other, and have cultivated a sense of superiority that has become a part of their very nature. They see themselves as the natural rulers of Athalion, and will almost always seek to lead whatever group they happen to find themselves a part of.

Basic Information

Anatomy

The Elani's appearance varies widely, with skin tones ranging from pale white to dark brown, and hair of all shades of blond, red, brown, or black. Their primary distinguishing characteristics are wide, almond-shaped eyes and pointed ears of varying size and length. Though most are of slight build, it is not uncommon to find quite robust Elani, especially in regions where they co-mingle with the other races of the world.

Biological Traits

+1 Dexterity
+1 Wisdom
-1 Strength
-1 Constitution

Growth Rate & Stages

The Elani mature much more slowly than most other races, with the rate decreasing steadily as they grow older. They are considered adults with full responsibilities at the age of 24, but commonly wait until around age 40 before marrying and reproducing. To calculate the equivalent Human age of an Elani, divide her age by 0.25 and add 10 years to the result. For example, a 64 year old Elani is about the same as a 26 year old Human (64*0.25+10).

Additional Information

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Through the ages, the Elani have established themselves in all corners of the world, but their ancestral home is the Kingdom of Sarenessa, in the wooded hills of central Iderica .

Civilization and Culture

Culture and Cultural Heritage

Elani society is organized into several distinct castes, each of which is dedicated to a specific area of specialization and study. Upon reaching the age of twelve, every Elani is assigned to one of these, depending on their demonstrated abilities. They spend the remainder of their long lives cultivating proficiency in its field, under the guidance of a mentor who is treated with great deference. Members of the caste are considered family, even more so than the Elani's biological relatives. Their identity within this group is so strong that they will most often refer to themselves not as Elani, but rather by their caste name.
Alshar - The Mage caste. Dedicated to the study of the arcane arts, most of the leadership in Elani society originates from the Alshar. Because of the importance given to magic within their culture, the Elani hold this caste in the highest regard. Alshari gain +1 Intelligence.
Ulvar - The Warrior caste. Defenders of their society, the Ulvar includes Fighters, Rangers, and Paladins, but is not limited to those classes. Members of this caste call upon a long tradition of warfare, and are among the most feared in Athalion. Ulvari gain +1 Constitution.
Denovar - The Priestly caste. Though composed mainly of clerics and scholars, the Denovar consists of all Elani interested in spiritual pursuits. The Gods hold a place of great honor among the Elani, and this caste likewise is viewed with reverence. Denovari gain +1 Wisdom.
Casivar - The Commoner caste. Comprised of those not chosen for any of the other castes, the Casivar includes traders, crafters, home makers, and many others. It is is by far the largest group among the Elani, and attends to the daily needs of society. Casivari gain +1 Charisma.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

The Elani take their status as the oldest race quite seriously, and consider it a great responsibility to preserve the world's wisdom and give guidance to their fellow races. This is often interpreted as arrogance, especially by the plain-spoken Varg, who view them as condescending and somewhat pretentious, and generally prefer to avoid their company. Most Elani have a distrust of the Eldren, originating from the earliest days of the two races' appearance in Athalion millennia ago.

Lifespan

400 years

Average Height

5.0 - 6.0 feet

Average Weight

100 - 220 lbs