Bloodbraid Elf

The Bloodbraid Elves, or "Blood Elves", are a clan of elves that live in Elfheim a subsection of small forested areas that are North of the Ever Green Glades. The clan is notably different than most other elves for several reasons, key among them being their lack of worship for the traditional elven god, their effectiveness in physical combat, and their massive stature. The clan is widely reviled by the other elves, and considered to be exiled.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Unlike most elves, the Bloodbraid clan possess extremely developed muscular structures, giving them an edge in physical force that isn't seen in the majority of elvenkind. They are also notably taller than most other races, with the average height being between 10 and 12 feet tall.

Growth Rate & Stages

Bloodbraid elf life is relatively similar to wood elf life cycles in it's early stages but upon reaching maturity unlike regular elves who simply continue their maturation process and coming into themselves Bloodbraid elves must undergo ritual to bind themselves to one of several Spirit Braids: Fire, Water, Forest, or Stone. The rest of their life cycle is then dependent on what Braid they are bound to and taking a position in the clan and learning skills based on their Braid to ensure the clans survival.
There is no actual sure determinate for which Spirit Braid a Bloodbraid will actually bind to once they undergo ritual however those that live closer to Lake Dusk tend to develop Water Braids and those who live closer to the Red Peak tend to develop Stone or Fire Braids so there is some consistent pattern.

Ecology and Habitats

Bloodbraid elves prefer forested areas just like their ancestors but are adaptable and have shown to be able to flourish in the mountainous areas of Red Peak. They are however nomadic and don't typically form large communities, the biggest observed clan only consisting of roughly 50 members.
Bloodbraid elves often end up in conflict with orcs or gnolls due to the widespread of the clan in regions of the Red Peaks, Elfheim, and outlier clans that border the marrow fields and while they are usually open to negotiate with humanoid races such as dwarves, humans, and freshwater tritons they have no such good will for the orcs and gnolls and will mercilessly display their more brutal side when they come into contact.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Unlike most elves who can sustain themselves and are primarily vegetarians Bloodbraid elves actually need meat or a significant source of protein in their diet otherwise they can get very sick.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Bloodbraid elves function as a nomadic and matriarchal tribal culture where typically the oldest and most powerful shamans or warriors are expected to lead the tribe.

Scientific Name

Dryadalis sapiens haemorifex

Origin/Ancestry

Elven

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Fire Braids have orange, red, or yellow colored markings usually in the shape of flames or stars on their body
Water Braids have blue, cyan, or indigo colored markings usually in the shape of water droplets or streaming lines on their body
Stone Braids have gray, brown, or black colored markings usually in the shape of circles or jagged shapes on their body
Forest Braids have green, olive, or moss colored marking in the patterns of leaves or as wavy lines on their body.

Geographic Distribution

• Elfheim