Half-Elf

The Aelfborn

Half-Elves, known as Aelfborn in Elvish, embody a union of Human versatility and Elven grace. These hybrids often arise from the mingling of Human and Elven communities, inheriting traits from both ancestries. Although some Aelfborn are born naturally from mixed relationships, their numbers are limited due to a common trait of sterility among them, making each Aelfborn quite unique. Straddling two worlds, they often find themselves in the role of mediators or wanderers, seeking a place where they truly belong.
Personality: Aelfborn carry the curious minds and adaptability of Humans alongside the refined senses and awareness of Elves. They are often quick-witted, observant, and capable of viewing issues from multiple perspectives, making them excellent diplomats and strategists. However, their dual heritage can also lead to a profound sense of isolation, as they grapple with fitting into either race fully. This can breed a range of personalities from outgoing and charismatic to reserved and introspective, driven by an internal quest for identity and acceptance.
Physical Description: Half-Elves blend the physical characteristics of their Human and Elven lineage, standing taller than most Human but shorter than most Elves, typically ranging from 5 to 6 feet in height. They possess slightly pointed ears, less pronounced than those of full Elves, and their eyes often bear the exotic hues of their Elven heritage—ranging from deep greens to vibrant ambers. Their build mixes Human sturdiness with Elven litheness, resulting in graceful yet robust physiques. Skin tones, hair color, and other features present a wide spectrum, reflecting the diversity of their backgrounds. Half-Elves are generally considered to be an adult at the age of 15-25 depending on the culture they are brought up in, but may not be finished physically, physiologically, and psychologically developing until around the age of 25. The average expected life span of a Half-Elf is about 150 years.
Relations: Aelfborn often find themselves as bridges between Human and Elven cultures. Their mixed heritage provides them with insights into both societies, yet this duality can sometimes place them on the outskirts of both. They tend to be well-regarded in diverse communities but might face prejudice in more homogeneous societies. Relations with other mixed races, like Half-Orcs, can be sympathetic due to shared experiences of cultural duality.
Alignment: Half-Elves are as varied in alignment as their parent races, showing tendencies towards neutrality given their balanced perspectives. They value both the lawful traditions of Elves and the free-spirited nature of Human, often resulting in alignments anywhere from lawful good to chaotic neutral, depending on their upbringing and personal ethics.
Lands: Aelfborn do not have lands of their own; instead, they are scattered throughout Human kingdoms and Elven forests. Many find homes in cosmopolitan cities or border towns where their mixed heritage is an asset rather than a curse, enabling them to fit into various roles and social strata.
Religion: Religiously, Aelfborn are eclectic, often following deities that emphasize balance, travel, or dualities, such as gods of trade, knowledge, or nature. Their faiths are usually personal and less dogmatic, reflecting their individual journeys and the diverse teachings they’ve encountered from both parental cultures.
Elven Half-Elves commonly speak both Elven and the local human dialects, using their linguistic skills to bridge gaps between different peoples. Their ability to negotiate between cultures often makes them valuable in diplomatic or trade negotiations.
Names:

• Masculine Names: Alaric, Berrian, Dorian, Faelen, Idril
• Feminine Names: Aerin, Celene, Miriel, Seren, Vanya
• Unisex Names: Caron, Loren, Rowan, Taryn, Yael
• Family Names: Greenwood, Highwater, Moonsilver, Starwind, Sunshadow

Adventurers: Aelfborn often venture into adventuring out of a desire to find their place in the world or to escape the confines of a society where they feel they do not fully belong. Many become scouts, Ranger, or Rogue, utilizing their innate skills in both urban and wild environments. Others might be drawn to the arcane arts, mixing Elven magical traditions with Human ingenuity. Their diverse skills and adaptability make them natural adventurers, thriving where the unpredictability of the path plays to their strengths.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Elf
• Human

Lifespan

150 years

Average Height

5-6 ft.

Average Weight

110-180 lbs.

Related Organizations

• Ardania
• Forged Path
• Holy Flame
• Luvoria

Personal Characteristics

Personality Traits

• “I thrive on diversity and can find common ground between the most disparate of allies.”
• “My charm is my greatest weapon; it disarms foes and wins me friends.”
• “I often find myself lost in thought, contemplating the mysteries of my dual heritage.”

Ideals

• Understanding: “I strive to bridge the gap between different cultures and races.”
• Independence: “I must carve out my own place in the world, neither wholly human nor elf.”
• Balance: “Harmony in all things is the true path to peace.”

Bonds

• “I am driven to protect the legacy of both my parents’ cultures.”
• “My loyalty lies with my friends who accept me for who I am—not half of one thing or half of another.”
• “I owe a great debt to my mentor, who taught me to embrace both sides of my heritage.”

Flaws

• “I can be indecisive, caught between two worlds and unsure which way to go.”
• “I sometimes feel intense loneliness, feeling that no one truly understands me.”
• “I overcompensate by being overly gregarious and sometimes superficial in my relationships.”