Ælf

Society of Ælfs depends upon which race one belongs to, although there are similarities between each. It may be simple coincidence that Pappol, the god worshipped by most Ælf people does not sanction the consumption of mammals. This is because it is said to have a detrimental effect upon one’s physical and mental abilities. Ælfs are also taught that they must prove their worth by remaining self-sufficient — charity is frowned upon at best. Lies and dishonesty are foreign concepts to these people, and they abhor it in the most. Most Ælfs look down upon Humans, perhaps this is why. If any Ælf is caught lying or cheating, he will instantly become an outcast, for which punishment is swift and simple: death.
Ælf society also values finesse and style above brute force or ignorance. This may also lend towards their attitude of superiority over many of the short-lived races.
There are special warriors within many of the Ælf societies — Humans may call them “bounty hunters”, spies or assassins. They are trained to track, infiltrate and kill without making any noise. These warriors are also trained in hand-to-hand combat and acrobatics. And because of their honesty, will die before betraying their people. And they seek the most horrible vengeance.
Ælf people also do not delineate career roles between gender; ability seems to be the only factor in these roles. They are a matriarchal society, in that parenthood is often traced exclusively through the mother. This is largely because marriages for any length of time are rare. Those that do happen are never frowned upon, but rarely last more than about fifty years. Open sexual conduct is the norm with these people — maybe because they are known to live an aeon or more. And possibly because they value knowledge above all else.
There is a special metal known as Ritla, which Ælfs know how to work. This metal is a silvery colour and is known to be as strong as steel, but much lighter. Although only the Sydroa and Kalgrans mine it, all groups of Ælfs can work it. This secret is guarded, and no other race knows it. Ritla adds one to armour deflection and one to breakage for weapons. Ælfs are said to be some of the best silversmiths there are, equalling Jarai at least, and they are known to have the most fantastic gardens in the world, sometimes making entire villages and towns into gardens where the people live in growing “houses”. They are also said to have the best homeopaths, healers, as well as weavers and tailors.
Ælfs do not deal with money between themselves. Most items are available to those who need them, and luxuries are often there for trade in kind or services. There is no human society which is so communal. All people contribute to the communal whole in whatever way they are capable. There is no poverty, nor is there crime (except that brought in and committed by outsiders). If some-one needs something, he merely approaches the person who makes it, and trades services or asks. The favour will be returned when possible. There is no waste, everything that can be re-used is. When an Ælf dies, his or her belongings are given to those who would use them best or traded for goods which will benefit the community. The only exception to the trade are items made of Ritla, these are always recycled within the community. If they must trade with outsiders, they will usually use a weight of precious or semi-precious metals (copper, brass, silver or gold).
Ælfs prize beauty and freedom. Life is also prized, but freedom more so. Death is viewed as the final freedom. Lies and deceit are seen to interfere with one’s own freedom and that of others. Beauty is best expressed through freedom, which is likely why Ælfen architecture is so spacious, high and free-form. Because of the communal ways of Ælfs, one family will often live within the same building for generations, adding and improving upon it; when one has centuries to create a beautiful home which expresses the familial view of the world, it can be quite breath-taking.
Ælf wizards are amongst the most powerful ever. Yet, there are many minor wizards amongst the Ælfs. Many people learn to do some magic, but not great amounts, usually things that are convenient — how to make lights after dark, helping your garden, speeding up healing and aiding sickness. Most Ælfs do not learn to do magic until well after maturity, commonly after the age of five hundred. Almost any Ælf over the age of 700 years will know some form of wizardry, even if just generalities. Those who learn it at a young age, in their youth or young adulthood, often become very powerful, sometimes more powerful than any living amongst the younger races. Yet there are none who practice demonism or pure necromancy. This seems to be a cultural taboo.
Once an Ælf reaches maturity, 320 years, sleep is no longer needed, but may be desired after a very rigorous day.

Basic Information

Biological Traits

Ælfs can range from 135 to 235 cm in height and from as little as 42 kg to as much as 145 kg.

Genetics and Reproduction

Ælfs have a gestation period of just over two years. They mature slowly and reach full reproductive maturity at 320 years of age. They appear physically mature within a century of birth. This has influenced their sexual practices and they tend to be quite open with one another regarding this.

Dietary Needs and Habits

All Ælfs cannot eat red meat of any sort, as it will make them quite ill. They eat primarily fruit and vegetables, which is supplemented by fish and fowl. They are capable of eating dairy products, but very few actually like it.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Ælfs have very good hearing and can hear at approximately 20% better than humans. They are also able to see into the infrared spectrum, so able to see in outdoor darkness extremely well.

Civilization and Culture

Major Language Groups and Dialects

There are four major ethnic groups of Ælfs: Sydroan, Kalgran, Bakkusan, and Darron.

Ælfs consider themselves more enlightened than other species on Lainshoa and can come across as quite arrogant as a result. They may, at times, be dismissive of individuals who seem immature or significantly less powerful than they are.

Lifespan

1000 years

Average Height

185 cm (6' 1")

Average Weight

88 - 92 kg