Dinak Elves

## Origin

The Dinak Elves, were the third of the elven species created on Talmin. They were brought into existence by the Water Giants using their potent magic. These elves originally hailed from the Mother Isles, now known as the Isles of Arcadia.

## Brief History

The Dinak Elves, brought to life by the Water Giants, began their journey on the Mother Isles, known later as the Isles of Arcadia. They were the third and last of the elven creations on the Mother Isles. There, the Dinak Elves carved out an existence in the shadow of the dominant Inalt Elves. Despite their subservient position, they were deeply valued within the elven community for their craftsmanship and nimble skills. Their artistry and crafty nature became integral to the daily life of the elven society, fostering a sense of indispensability and honor in their work. However, this era of elven peace came to a tragic end with the War of the Two Kings, which saw the demise of the remaining Dinak Elves, effectively extinguishing their presence on the Mother Isles.

After the Great Migration, the Dinak Elves of Edoria took a much different turn. As artisans and tinkerers, they played a pivotal role in the Monster and Dragon Wars. Here, too, they found themselves in a subservient position, yet their contributions were crucial. Their skills in crafting and making were not just a means of livelihood but became instrumental in the war efforts. In the forges and workshops, Dinak Elves worked tirelessly, their nimble fingers and innovative minds producing tools and weapons essential for survival and victory.

In the wake of the the Dragon Wars, the Dinak Elves on Edoria faced a harrowing period of persecution during the Edorian Race War. This dark chapter saw them, alongside their elven kin, being relentlessly hunted by humans. Forced into seclusion, the Dinak Elves retreated to the city of Turian, an elven sanctuary amidst the chaos. In this refuge, they began a process of healing and adaptation, learning to coexist more closely with their elven brethren. The tragedies they had endured created a bond forged in shared suffering and a mutual desire for peace. In Turian, the Dinak Elves, along with the Inalt and Kalandor elves, cultivated a culture deeply rooted in unity and mutual respect.

When the god mist receded, the Dinak Elves learned of a resurgent elven empire in the distant land of Val Matyr, under the Inalt Elves' rule. Seizing this opportunity to reconnect with their kin, a group of Dinak Elves sailed to Val Matyr, eagerly pledging allegiance to the emperor and the Aetherian Empire. The emperor, delighted to reunite with these long-lost relatives, gifted them the city of Theg Uhlum. This city, tailored for the Dinak Elves and dwarves, was a symbol of unity and diversity within the empire. In Theg Uhlum, the Dinak Elves found a new home, where their traditions and craftsmanship flourished.

## Geographical Presence / Population

Dinak Elves can be found scattered throughout the world.

* The **Imperialist Dinak Elves** population is rather small and newly developing on Val Matyr. Majority of these Dinak can be found in the city of Theg Uhlum and call themselves imperialists.
* The **Edorian Dinak Elf** is the largest population of these elves. They are typically on the continent of Edoria, primarily in the elven occupied city of Turian.

## Physical Characteristics

*These are generic characteristics and are subject to change depending on the individual.*

* Lifespan: Long Lifespan (100-300 years)
* Skin Tone: Pale tones
* Size: Small
* Personality: Crafty, Nimble, Cheerful

**Sub-Species**

* Gnomes
* Tomtes
* Leprechauns

## Culture

### **Edorian Dinak Elves**

In the elven city of Turian on Edoria, the Dinak Elves have cultivated a cohesive culture alongside the other elven races in the city. These elves, having faced persecution and survival in the harsh climates of Edoria, have developed a strong sense of unity and adaptability. Their values are intertwined with a profound connection to nature, which is evident in their daily lives and rituals. Their crafts are not mere professions; they are seen as sacred acts, preserving their heritage and strengthening community bonds.

Family and community play central roles in the Dinak Elves' social structure. Families are tightly knit units, often living together in communal homes that reflect their deep connection with each other and with nature. Elders are respected for their wisdom and experience, and children are raised with a strong sense of belonging and responsibility towards their community. In their religious beliefs, the Dinak Elves of Edoria worship nature deities, with a particular reverence for spirits that embody the elements of the land they live on.

### **Imperialist Dinak Elves**

On the far continent of Val Matyr, the Imperial Dinak Elves, settled in the city of Theg Uhlum. These elves, having pledged allegiance to the Aetherian Empire, and have embraced a new set of values and traditions, influenced significantly by the imperialist culture of Val Matyr. They view themselves as pioneers, bridging the gap between their ancient elven traditions and the new empire they are now a part of. In Theg Uhlum, they have built a society that is a blend of their craftsmanship and the grandeur of the empire.

The Imperial Dinak Elves hold a strong belief in the power of unity and diversity, seeing themselves as integral parts of the larger elven empire. Their social structure is more hierarchical, reflecting the imperial system they have adopted. Families lineages are less important to non Inalt Elves, and instead there is a greater emphasis on individual achievement and service to the empire. In terms of religious beliefs, the Imperial Dinak Elves have adopted Aetherian Empire beliefs and have turned their backs on the gods. They still hold nature in high regard, but have stopped their ancient cultural rituals, reflecting their allegiance to the empire.

## Significant Dinak Elf Events

* Creation of the Elves
* The Great Migration
* The Joybringer and the Creation of the Ice Elves
* The War of the Two Kings
* The Edorian Race War