Elves

History and Tradition:

The oldest of the mortal races, Arianrhod created the elves along with many of the animals who roam the lands, though the elves of the current ages are noticeably different to the original elves. They were created with a close connection to nature, though this became a detriment when Taika touched the world and her magic spread throughout nature.
Now naturally attuned to magic and gifted with long lives, elves traditionally live secluded in their own territories. Fiercely defending their lands from those who harm it, the elven kingdoms fight to preserve the natural harmony of their surroundings. They live not off the land, rather with it. However, any traveller who doesn't disturb nature will find themselves safe to travel across the elven lands.
The older elven kingdoms are still following the ancient traditions, led by their queen, their matriarch. In ancient elven traditions, women have a higher standing, given to them for their ability to create new life, through birth. Mothers have more status than any others within ancient elven traditions. Each individual has value in elven society but when a decision has to be made, a woman's choice has a slightly greater weight.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Elves have distinctly elongated ears, leading to their derogatory name of "Knife Ears". The elves generally have paler skin when compared to other races. This also causes them to be a bit more sensitive to the sun. They also tend to have light hair colours. Measuring with an average height of 1,9m and an average weight of 71kg, the elves than to be fairly frail. Elven eyes come in all kinds of colours, most often reflecting the magic running through their veins.
Elves are noticeable trimorphic as a species. Females are noticeably larger than male, being taller and stronger. Though they aren't bulkier, having very lean muscles. 
However, the few hermaphrodites of the elven species are stronger still. They also have a bit more bulk, as the muscles aren't capable to contain the additional power while staying as lean as the female. Their appearance leans more towards the feminine. Most could pass for female, though their wider shoulder tends to give them away.

Genetics and Reproduction

Elven pregnancy lasts about a year. Notable is the discrepancy between the number of female born to the number of males born. On average, 70% of children born are female. It's unknown why this is, though many claim that it is the will of the Divine. A very small portion of elves is born as hermaphrodites.

Growth Rate & Stages

The longest lived of the major races, elves live up to 700 years and beyond. Age is less apparent on elves generally, with wrinkles and greying hair being uncommon unless one reaches the venerable ages.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Traditional elven societies have a strict hierarchy between then genders, which hermaphrodites at the top, followed by women and lastly men. This is mainly because of the value place on being able to bear children. This puts men at the bottom and the ability of hermaphrodites ability to impregnate others in addition to being able to bear children is what puts them above women.
When hermaphrodites reach maturity, they are normally invited to join the Wild-touched, the nobility of elven society. Should they accept, they leave their family as the Wild-touched become their new family. The hermaphrodites are then expected to take two partners, one female and one male, to sire a child and to carry another themselves.
Expected to eventually act as heads of states for individual regions, newly inducted hermaphrodites are taken under the wings of their elders, to learn their duties and prepare for when they are to replace them. It's common that they move to a different region than where they grew up. This is to help them distance themselves from their old lives. Despite this, they aren't inconsiderate regarding the connection to their old family. The new hermaphrodites are often allowed to return to visit their old family when their duties allow it, though as time progresses, they will have less and less time for it until they finally take over from their elder and time doesn't permit them to do so anymore.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Naturally attuned to magic, most, if not all elves have magic flowing through their veins giving them the ability to learn to cast spells.

Civilization and Culture

Beauty Ideals

Feminine and especially motherly traits are highly valued in elven society. So wider hips and soft facial features are seen as very attractive. However, because of the martial role women also take, larger breasts aren't as attractive within the Karniverh. Though within the Wild-Wed, it is seen as a sign that one has embraced one's motherhood. 
Even amongst the men, more feminine features are preferred. Facial hair is generally looked down upon, see as unkempt.

Courtship Ideals

Women are expected to make the first move, showing interest in the man. After that, the man needs to prove that he can be of value to her.
The Wild-Touched however, usually approach the one they want. As it is considered an honour to be the partner of a Wild-Touched, most will accept right away.

Common Taboos

There are areas which are strictly off-limits, which are blessed by the Wild-Wed. These sites are considered holy and are not to be disturbed except by those also blessed by the Wild-Wed.

Common Myths and Legends

It's said that the more powerful of the Wild-Touched claim areas of nature and are able to transform into beasts.

Lifespan

650 - 800 years, with an average of 750 years

Average Height

1,75 - 2,1 m, with an average of 1,9 m

Average Weight

58 - 84 kg, with an average of 71 kg

Average Physique

Commonly lean and lithe

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Pale to light tan