===== Elf =====

If other long-lived species are stones in the river of time, steadfast against the torrents of change, then Elves are fish. They exist within the movements and flows of their world--they understand them, are molded by them, and live in harmony. Because of that, they have made their way into every corner of the realms they inhabit, displaying an incredible fluidity of physiology, culture, and temperament.

Elves inevitably flourish in almost any environment and have gradually adjusted their genetic traits to be more in tune with their surroundings. Variants have developed over time, exhibiting subtle shifts to best suit their chosen ecosystem. These may manifest as simply as differences in complexion, all the way up to unique specializations to thrive in an unforgiving landscape. Elves have been found in cities, deserts, forests, tundras, plains, on the high-seas, as nomads, as settled members of communities, and even as avowed hermits. A city-dwelling elf might have lived there since it was a cluster of huts, and love the city all the more for it, another might wander the world as an eternal student, investing centuries into a monumental magnum opus, and another might stand guardian over some forgotten, wild place far from the edge of civilization’s maps. 

All elves, despite their evolutionary adaptability, share the same core biological traits. They possess incredibly keen senses that allow them to perceive the world around them with a clarity many species could only dream of. When focused, an elf can scent a shift in weather, or hear the songs of night creatures. Their vision is unparalleled, even at a great distance, making elves particularly suited for [[Archery]] and ranged combat, which they can learn at half the cost. Their natural long-life gives them a strong focus on maintaining the stability of whatever environment they’ve chosen to call home, whether that means fostering sustainable living within the rhythms of nature, preserving the socio-economic health of their humble town, or manipulating relationships between nations as dignitaries. These sustainable practices often make for a healthier landscape and Elven people, aiding in resistances to common illnesses and further fortifying the natural Elven longevity. 

While Elven societies exist in every variation of structure and style, they demonstrate obvious commonalities. Their stewardship over their land results in architecture where engineering and natural features exist in perfect union. Natural resources are cared for and maintained vigilantly, making them profitable trade-partners to other societies, or perhaps rich targets for conquest. Being so attuned with the land, sea, and stars, Elven cultures are prone to observe and celebrate occasions of natural beauty and Celestial occurrences whenever possible.

Elves understand that there is always, always more time, and even the most awful tragedies or grand triumphs will pass and fade away. This tendency can make them appear unempathetic to the day-to-day hardships of life-- even aloof, passive aggressive, or at worst, elitist. Yet this resilience of mind gives them natural mental defenses, and all elves gain access to the species ability [[Resist Command]] (4 XP). Many young elves are filled with an unquenchable wanderlust, and their buoyant spirits lead them towards exploration and discovery. Some never settle down, and spend mortal lifetimes seeking adventure on the ever-elusive edge of the unknown. 

So much variety and potential may make defining the Species as slippery as catching a silver fish in a stream, but one need only look to the world around them to have all the context necessary to understand elves. They are as the world is.

**Species Specific Skills:** [[Resist Command]] 4XP, Half-Cost for [[Archery]] (rounded up)

**Prosthetics and Makeup Requirements:** All Elves must wear pointed ear prosthetics. These may vary in shape and length but should be visible over the player’s hairline. Ideally these should be a shape which is not easily mistaken for animal ears. You are also encouraged to have any other costuming you feel further represents the “type” of elf you are playing.