Dark Elves

Dark Elves were an Esrian race known to be a derivative of the elves. Although they once lived alongside their ancient cousins, they were later driven from Arcadia by their kin. They thereafter undertook their journey to seek refuge underground, settling in what would come to be known as Ostia, underneath the Aryns and the Aubers. They would come to be seen as a race of shrewd diplomats and wary merchants by the human kingdoms they traded with.
During the Era of Discord, the Dark Elves mainly worshipped the druidic goddesses. The few that worshipped Arioch later spurned society and broke off from their kin. They would later become corrupted by their worship and came to be called the Fey.
== Information ==
=== Physical Description ===
Dark elves were average in height. They were similar to elves in that did not suffer from genetic defects. Although they weakened with age, their physical decline was far slower than what was typically observed in other races. They lacked the colour of skin possessed by their surface born cousins. 
Their skin colours could vary from shades of blues and purples. In some cases, their skin was described as having the absence of colour itself. Their hair colour varied between black and white. They had completely black eyes. 
Due to their unusual underground diet, many individuals among the dark elves were unable to eat meat, instead preferring vegetables. 
=== Society ===
Dark elven societies were found exclusively underground. Few individuals left their subterranean homes to pursue live above ground. Travellers were often limited to traders and adventurers. Dark elven society treated many of these individuals with great suspicion, leading to a divide in society between those who had travelled above-ground and those who had stayed. Some dark elves would never see sunlight during their lifetimes, a trait considered virtuous among noble society. 
=== Relations ===
Despite their reclusive nature, dark elves often plied trade goods to the human kingdoms of Western Astria. Although the two races would never reach a state of co-habitation, both races saw benefit to mutual co-operation where it could be found. The two largest kingdoms, Undir and Êgrond, maintained standing armies to defend against external threats. In times of great crisis, however, they would remain in defence of their mountain homes, never venturing forth to aid the other races against mortal threats.
Elves were viewed with distrust, and their magicians practically reviled in dark elven society. Despite attempts to calm racial relations throughout history, the two races would remain cold acquaintances at best. Few elven individuals ever managed to make longstanding friends with their cousin race, given the longstanding animosity most individuals had for one another.Category:Browse