Elfese

"Everwealth's former masters, a fact they have not forgotten."

The Elfese are a people forged in the crucible of ancient supremacy, refined, severe, and unyieldingly proud. Once rulers of Everwealth, their dominion stretched across shining marble cities and blade-lined groves, governed not by whims but by the brutal elegance of order. Though The Great Schism shattered their golden age and scattered their bloodlines, sending them to the trecherous jungles of old Halash, now Kibonoji, but it did not break their will. If anything, it hardened it. Elfese culture clings tightly to the old ways, not out of nostalgia, but as a shield against the chaos they believe 'lesser' races invited into the world. Their society, bound by the iron petals of the Way of the Flower, and numerous other traditions they deem adherence to as their utmost sacred responsibility, enforces hierarchy with ritualistic precision. The Way of the Flower shapes their arts, etiquette, and spiritual duties, while the warrior class is further governed by Katsuragari-no-Michi, the Way of the Falling Petal, a philosophy that demands one’s actions reflect quiet perfection, and one’s death, graceful inevitability. Every Elfese is a thread in the great tapestry, woven by bloodline and bound by expectation. Disobedience is not rebellion, it is rot. They believe their form, their minds, their traditions were shaped closer to perfection than any others, and though their power has waned, their gaze remains sharp and cold. Whether through exacting artisanship, emotionless diplomacy, or ruthless martial discipline, the Elfese do not forget what was taken from them. And they do not forgive. What others see as elegance, they wield like a knife.

Naming Traditions

Feminine names

• Aoi.
• Fumiko.
• Hana.

Masculine names

• Akihiko.
• Daiki.
• Kaito.

Unisex names

• Itsuki.
• Jun.
• Midori.

Family names

Sato Coming from the characters "to" and "sa". "To" the Elfese character for wisteria or fuji, and "sa" a bureaucratic title. Suzuki Meaning "bell tree". Tanaka Surname that means "center of the rice paddy".

Other names

• Sunflower of the Dawn: A term used for an exceptional young Elfese, akin to a prodigy, who is expected to bring great change to their house or community.
• Silverblade: A title granted to the highest-ranking warriors who have sworn absolute loyalty to their lord, often a mark of honor among the nobility.
• Imperial Mark: Often given to those with direct ties to the ruling Daimyo or feudal lords, marking them as respected within the court.

Culture

Major language groups and dialects

The Elfese speak a simple, refined overlaying language known as 'Elfese' where one term can mean multiple words at once, more contextual based. The written form of Elfese is almost an art form, many complex runic characters written in precise rows down a page rather than across it. Examples; Tasshya degozaru ka: Means "how are you?" Shinpai gomuyou: Means "I am okay" Katajikenai: The samurai version of "thank you

Culture and cultural heritage

The Elfese come from a tradition that honors the relationship between the land and the people. While their culture is rooted in feudal systems, they do not merely exist in servitude but hold a deep respect for duty and obedience to their lords (Daimyo). They place importance on craftsmanship, particularly in the areas of pottery, swordsmithing, and textile arts, which have been passed down through generations. Their religion and spirituality reflect a reverence for nature, with ancestor worship playing a key role in their daily life. Their devotion to purity and balance can be seen in everything from their meticulous daily rituals to their precise, functional architecture. The Way of the Flower philosophy guides their actions, fostering not only martial prowess but also the pursuit of perfection in the arts and spirituality. Elfese society is divided by strict roles, but this creates a unity among them, bound by a common reverence for tradition and structure. However, their strictness can also result in a rigidity in dealing with outsiders, as their focus on maintaining the purity of their bloodlines and cultural practices can lead to distrust of those outside their own race.

Shared customary codes and values

Elfese society upholds two parallel yet deeply intertwined codes:

• The Way of the Flower, which governs social conduct, artistry, ancestry, and one's role in the larger whole. It is the foundation of daily life, emphasizing harmony, duty, and beauty born from order.
• Katsuragari-no-Michi, or The Way of the Falling Petal, governs the warrior class specifically. It teaches that to wield a blade is not merely to fight but to do so with elegance and necessity. A warrior does not seek death, but accepts it as part of their form. Honor, when breached, is restored only through sacrifice that blooms in silence.

Average technological level

The Elfese now a shadow of their former selves, bereft of their ancient ancestral homes and all it achieved, do still possess renown technological achievements to this day. A pearlescent albeit brittle material known as 'porcelain' which they make dolls and other decorative trinkets with atop many serving dishes, a widely saught after item. Elfese 'Steelbark', both light and durable enough to stop an arrow with a 10-parchment-thick sheet alone made by Elfese druids; Especially bows crafted with this material by said druids which spent many ageless centuries perfecting their crafts, another coveted piece of Elfese invention.

Common Etiquette rules

Bowing in Elfese culture a standard greeting and farewell. The depth and duration of a bow indicative of social status, deeper and longer bows showing greater respect. Elfese are also expected to remove their shoes when entering a home or other indoor space, replacing them with indoor slippers instead. Elfese predominantly address people by their family name followed by the honorific "san". For example, "Tanaka-san". The Elfese have what-seems an intrisic distaste for staring directly into someone's eyes for too long, and break eye contact occasionally even among close companions; By extension disliking when one points at people. Don't blow your nose in public, only when you're alone or in the chambers. In homes with small tubs, family members bathe in order of seniority, starting with the oldest person.

Common Dress code

The Elfese much like most things adhere to strict expectations of dress. The Elfese warrior class wears a kimono with a kamishimo, a two-piece outfit that consists of a sleeveless jacket and wide, flowing trousers called hakama. The kamishimo is starched to make the shoulders stand out; Also wearing long-sleeved coats when traveling. Women's dress also carefully prescribed to reflect their social status, age, season, and occasion. Married women for instance wear a short-sleeved kimono called a kosode, while young unmarried girls wear a long-sleeved furisode. Women's robes are made up of layers of colors, called kasane no irome, arranged to indicate the wearer's taste and rank. Elfese nobility wears an ikan court uniform and a kariginu for informal wear. Elfese Tabi are a traditional type of footwear that are a hybrid of a shoe and a sock, often worn with a kimono and traditional footwear like geta or zori. Elfese Yukata are cotton kimono with stencil-dyed patterns, designed initially to be worn at home after a bath, now commonly worn on hot summer evenings.

Art & Architecture

Elfese architecture emphasizes simplicity and elegance, favoring tall, wooden structures that reflect their connection with the natural world. These structures are often built with sloping roofs and open courtyards, creating a sense of balance with the surrounding environment. Stone fortifications protect their homes, with intricate carvings representing ancestral spirits and nature’s power. Harmonious design is the key to Elfese buildings, where every space feels alive with nature, combining the strength of stone with the flexibility of wood. Elfese artistry is known for its focus on natural beauty. From calligraphy to flower arranging, every art form reflects a deep connection with the natural world. Minimalism is key in their paintings, where they often depict only single subjects, allowing the emptiness in the background to tell its own story. Their ceramics and pottery often feature delicate designs, inspired by floral and natural motifs, with many pieces having a ritualistic purpose. Art is not just a practice of beauty for them, but a means of connecting with their past, their gods, and the natural forces they revere.

Foods & Cuisine

Elfese diets are pragmatic, focusing on nutrition to keep their kinfolk sharp and precise. These diets consist of heavily-seasoned beef or chicken based meals paired with noodles soaked in broths with smaller cuts of meat and vegetables, or especially a filling and abundant grain crop known as 'rice' which makes up the backbone of a large majority of Elfese cooking.

Common Customs, traditions and rituals

The Elfese are very deeply rooted in tradition, one of these traditions hosting regular festivals for even minor annual occasions. 'The Coming to Kibonoji Festival' to celebrate the Elfs arrival to their new home after losing Everwealth to men and Dwarfs, 'The Return of Autumn' festival to commemorate another year their species survived hardships to see the harvest season; Each featuring specialized food vendors, parades, extravagant puppets, kites, lanterns, dancers, drink and every entertainment they can put-together. The Elfese also have firm dedication to the Gods and their ancestors alike, holding and regularly maintaining opulent shrines in their honor.

Birth & Baptismal Rites

After an Elfese infant is born, the child after spending 100 days confined in a room with their mothers to ensure their healthy growth/constant dedicated attention; The child will be taken to a varying shrine of a God or revered ancestor the family it is born into holds dear, where the child's family will commence a ceremonious prayer to that particular idol for the child's longevity and protection.

Coming of Age Rites

The Elfese view the transition into adulthood not simply as a physical milestone, but as a spiritual and societal transformation marked by discipline, mastery, and obedience. Typically reached at the age of fifteen, the rite of passage is known as the Hanatōmei, or "Blossoming into Form."

• This ceremony varies slightly depending on caste, but always includes three core elements:
• The Bow of Form: The young Elf must demonstrate their dedication to the "Way of the Flower" through a series of rituals meant to show patience, control, and composure. These may involve meditation, floral arrangement, or a full day of ceremonial silence.
• The Skill of Duty: The adolescent must showcase a skill that reflects their intended path in society, be it martial, artistic, spiritual, or academic. A warrior-in-training may perform a kata with ancestral weapons; a noble-born might recite lineage histories or conduct a tea ceremony; a shrineborn might perform a sacred song or prayer.
• The Marking of the Brow: At the conclusion of the rite, the elder of their family or a local Daimyo applies a small, petal-shaped mark to the center of the youth’s brow using powdered pigment derived from Throatbloom flowers, symbolizing beauty born of suffering. This mark fades in the days to follow, but its memory remains a source of pride.
• After the Hanatōmei, the Elf is expected to act in full accordance with their caste's expectations, and is eligible to marry, inherit titles, and perform shrine rites. While the ceremony is elegant and serene, it is also heavy with pressure, for failure or rebellion during the rite often results in social shame or reassignment to a lesser station.

Funerary and Memorial customs

Upon death, the Elfese often cremate their dead, sending them off with offerings of treasures and tools they valued in life. These items are believed to aid the soul on its journey to the afterlife, ensuring that the deceased is well-equipped for the spiritual journey. A funeral pyre is constructed with the deceased’s most cherished belongings, and the family gathers for one last offering of respect. The Elder Elves are said to be revered in death, with some believing their spirits remain in their wooden homes, watching over their kin.

Common Taboos

• Losing Composure in Public: Displaying uncontrolled anger or strong emotion in public is considered disgraceful, as Elfese society prizes grace and self-restraint.
• Disrespecting Elders and Ancestors: Any show of disrespect toward elders or ancestors, such as failing to use proper honorifics or neglecting ancestral rites, is strictly taboo, as reverence for forebears is paramount in Elfese culture.
• Violating Gender Roles: Defying traditional gender expectations in public or sacred contexts is strongly taboo. Each gender has clearly defined roles in ceremonies and society, and crossing those boundaries without cause invites social censure.
• Profaning Sacred Spaces: Any defilement of sacred spaces, entering a temple without purification, raising one’s voice at a shrine, or spilling blood on holy ground, is strictly forbidden. Elfese culture demands the utmost reverence and purity in the presence of the divine.
• Despoiling Nature’s Gifts: Unnecessary harm to the natural world, such as cutting down ancient trees or killing creatures for sport, is deeply taboo. The Elfese believe all life is sacred, and one must never waste or disrespect nature’s gifts.

Common Myths and Legends

• The Moonlit Stag: A ghostly white stag is said to appear on full-moon nights to guide lost travelers and bless those pure of heart. This legend reassures the Elfese that living virtuously and in harmony with nature will bring guidance in times of need.
• The Crimson Oni: Legends tell of a horned, crimson-skinned Oni that once terrorized Elfese villages, preying on those who neglected the old protective rites. It was finally banished by a selfless hero’s sacrifice, and the tale endures as a warning that abandoning tradition and light can invite terrible evils.
• Ariavel the Firstborn: Ariavel the Firstborn was the legendary founder of the Elfese nation, guided by a divine star to lead their ancestors to their forest homeland. Ariavel’s sacred laws and wise example established the Elfese principles of honor, harmony, and reverence for nature that still guide them today.
• Prince Kaelen’s Folly: Prince Kaelen was a proud Elfese noble who broke a sacred oath and dabbled in forbidden sorcery, seeking immortality and power. As punishment, the gods cursed him to transform into a mindless beast. His tragic fate stands as a dire warning against arrogance and defying the natural order.
• The Song of Starfall: Legend says an Elfese bard once played a melody so pure that it calmed a rampaging dragon, saving an entire city without spilling a single drop of blood. This cherished tale highlights the Elfese belief in the transcendent power of art and beauty to resolve conflicts where violence cannot.

Historical figures

A great figure in Elfese mythology is a famed warrior known as Asahi Saito, an Elf who 'fought with the swiftness of a lightning bolt and the strength of a horse', that became the first recorded emperor of the Elfese; Seemingly with naught but tact, time and effort alone uniting the ancient former lands Everwealth would become under his banner forming an empire that would last nearly two-thousand years until the Schism would rip it apart like most-other things; 'First of Lords, Emperor before Emperors' some names he is commonly referred to.

Ideals

Beauty Ideals

Women are expected to be dainty and pale. While men are expected to be fit, with sharp/angular features.

Gender Ideals

In Elfese culture gender roles are blatantly defined by a hierarchy that places men above women, but there are exceptions depending on social class.

Courtship Ideals

Elfese courtship emphasizes respect, modesty, and gradual development of a strong emotional connection between two interested parties. Same-sex relations considered dishonorable, unable or outright refusing to 'pass on your legacy'.

Relationship Ideals

Elfese folk are expected to follow the principles of obligation, obedience, and loyalty. Women expected to obey their fathers as daughters, their husbands as wives, and their sons as widows; Also expected to be chaste in marriage, and a law allowing husbands to kill their wives and their lovers if they were found to be adulterous is-in place. The eldest son inherits his father's property and the father has absolute power over the family. The relationship between Elfese lords and vassals is based on the exchange of land ownership and use for military service and loyalty. The code of Bushido emphasizes acting without hesitation to fulfill duties, regardless of success or failure. The Elfese also strongly adhere to a rule known as 'Shudan ishiki', an Elfese term describing group consciousness, where people prioritize group harmony over the individual. Katsuragari-no-Michi, instilled in the warrior caste, emphasizes swift, decisive action to uphold duty regardless of consequence. It is not enough to protect, one must protect with composure, without spectacle or complaint. Where The Way of the Flower prizes beauty in tradition, The Falling Petal prizes grace in service, especially unto death.

Interesting Facts & Folklore:

• Antlers of Age: Pure-blooded male Elfese grow antlers with age, considered a mark of wisdom and experience. Elaborately shaped antlers are seen as signs of noble lineage or spiritual insight.
• Way of the Flower: Their philosophical doctrine governs daily life, emphasizing harmony, discipline, and one's role in society as ordained by birth or duty.
• Dual Legacy: Despite being born in Everwealth, many Elfese are treated with suspicion due to ancestral ties with Kibonoji, leading to a fractured identity between loyalty and heritage.
• Shrine Offerings: Some believe that properly honoring one’s ancestors through shrine rituals can grant blessings of luck, fertility, or protection against dishonor.
• Craft of Porcelain: Elfese artisans are credited with the creation of the world’s finest porcelain, so delicate and perfect that it is sometimes rumored to be spun from moonlight and prayer.

Metaphors & Idioms:

• “Bloom with grace, fall with honor.” A proverb reminding one to live beautifully, even if destined for failure. Often said before duels or moments of great sacrifice.
• “Antlers unbent.” Used to describe someone who refuses to submit or compromise, even under pressure, noble, but often foolish.
• “One petal out of place.” A metaphor for minor dishonor or deviation from protocol that may have outsized social consequences.
• “Better to bleed on the mat than stain the name.” A warning that personal suffering is preferable to shaming one's family or clan.
• :The flower bows to the wind, but breaks for no man.” An expression of quiet resilience, subtle flexibility without surrendering one's core.