Elvenari

   

Description

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In Dromaria's earliest days, "elvenari" emerged more as a societal label than a distinct racial identifier. Originally used to encompass all elves apart from the high elves, it brought together diverse groups who learned to coexist. While the elvenari exhibit variations in appearance, their unity transcends physical traits.   The elvenari formed a collective identity, embracing their differences as strengths rather than divisions. They embody a rich array of elven cultures, each contributing unique viewpoints to their vibrant societies.   Among the elvenari, one can find a remarkable range of appearances, reflecting the diversity of their origins. Some possess distinct features that set them apart from the Eshanan elves, including variations in height, build, and facial characteristics. Due to the wide diversity of elvenari heritage, it is possible to find hair and skin variations of any color. Their most defining characteristic, distinguishing them from others, are their elongated ears.   Their unity extends beyond mere physical attributes; it is founded on a rooted connection with nature. In contrast to high elves, who often bend nature to their will, most elvenari embrace a harmonious existence, utilizing their inherent magical abilities to live in symbiosis with the world.   Drawing inspiration and strength from nature, the elvenari employ their innate magical talents to nurture and safeguard their surroundings. They are commonly found in the lands of Leng and the country of Belwin on Pathriam but freely roam across all regions of Dromaria.   While they are not immortal, many elvenari can live for centuries, with some known to reach ages of 800 years or more.  

Societies

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The largest elvenari communities reside within the expansive reaches of the Great Forest, distancing themselves from their more urbanized high elf cousins. Elvenari have formed societies that exist in harmony with the forest and its many native inhabitants. Known as Luminaeri, the Great Forest engulfs almost the entire continent of Leng, serving as both sanctuary and bastion.   A long history of love, violence, and oppression has resulted in a rift between the elvenari and Eshanan societies. Among the elvenari of Leng, diverse groups exist, but most choose communal living, creating a cohesive melting pot spread beneath the vast canopy of the forest. Despite the necessity for occasional trade and interaction with the elves, many elvenari lean towards a solitary existence, nestled in the wilds. In contrast, the Eshanan show little desire to dwell within the untamed depths of the Great Forest.   In the land of Belwin, there is a notable faction of elvenari, sometimes referred to as Quáce. They demonstrate a special affinity for integrating with the creatures of the Otherwyld and wholeheartedly embrace the magical progress made by their neighbors in the Thorn nation. Within Belwin, the Summertide chapter of the Illumination faith commands the largest following, with numerous elvenari actively participating.   The societal perception of the elvenari varies significantly. They inspire awe and curiosity, but also mistrust due to their varied nature. This ambiguity is especially prevalent among the Eshanan elves, who harbor a complex view of their cousins. While some eshanan express appreciation for their diverse kin, others persist in maintaining a sense of superiority. For those who exist outside of traditional societal structures, elvenari offer an intriguing alternative that values diversity and a symbiotic relationship with the natural world.  

History

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The origins of the elvenari lie in the world of Nalorea, where they were encountered by the Ancestors during their celestial travels. The native inhabitants of Nalorea devoted their worship to two deities of nature, Benikio and Damyomhikir.   Initially, the locals and the Ancestors grappled with language barriers, which threatened their peaceful coexistence. However, a leader among them named Asir, with power bestowed by Damyomhikir, facilitated understanding between the communities. This breakthrough led to a unification of elven societies. Blessed by their deities, the elvenari decided to leave their doomed world and join the Ancestors on their journey.   Upon their arrival on Dromaria, the elvenari suffered a devastating blow when Rodgort, a primal molten dragon, obliterated their deities, Benikio and Damyomhikir. This disaster left Serithell, leader of the Eshanan elves, feeling responsible for those who had lost their gods.   For many years the elvenari lived with the other settlers, including the Eshanan . Despite the mostly peaceful existence, difficulties arose thanks to the intrusion of the high elves, who repeatedly tried to shape the elvenari in their own image. Serithell became a staunch advocate of this reformative approach, exacerbating the challenges.   Stubborn in her mission, the elves intensified their efforts to uplift the elvenari, often neglecting the people's happiness and traditions. Asir alongside Serithell's daughter Elsinleyown, drew attention to the growing divide caused by the elves’ efforts. When Serithell disregarded their pleas, Asir and Elsinleyown mobilized the elvenari, encouraging them to break away from the Eshanan and establish their own societies.   The elvenari were the first people to leave the safety of Kalatearman and spread across the region of Zan'deil, establishing the cities of Yu'Yrel and Darumvurn, among many other locations lost to time. Finally the majority of their people settled on the continent of Leng, where they braved the terror-ridden Age of Horror. Years of peaceful isolation followed until the Eshanan were forced to abandon their devastated new homeland of Dendenwine. In an attempt to find safety they traveled to Leng, triggering a violent conflict over territory known as the Muindor Disputes.   This war claimed the lives of Elsinleyown and Serithell, resulting in the dispersion of many elvenari, either off the continent or deeper into the woods of Leng. Over time, the elvenari established their communities within the Great Forest, free from the rule of Leng's Emperor. To this day, the elvenari primarily reside in these woods, a testament to their resilience and determination to maintain their unique culture and traditions.