High Elves
The High Elves, or Vel’nai, are a minor race of elves directly descended from the Star Elves (Sira’nai), a civilization of elves renowned for its celestial study, mathematical systems, and contemplation. Following the migration to Alatrha, the High Elves became one of the most advanced and enduring elven civilizations. They are known for their mastery of arcane magic, structured society, and towering architecture, all built upon a philosophy of ancestral continuity and racial refinement.
| High Elf | |
|---|---|
| Major race | |
 Example appearance | |
| Attributes | |
| Average lifespan (max) | 800 years (1600) |
| Age of maturity | 150 years |
| Height range | 1.75 - 2.20 m (5′9′′ - 7′30′′) |
Parent Race: Elf
Etymology
- Vel’nai: Endonym; from vel (light, pure) + ’nai (essence, bound), meaning “Those of the Pure Line.”
- High Elves: A common name used to distinguish this lineage from other elven branches.
Physical Traits
High Elves are considered physically and aesthetically striking:
- Skin tones: Pale to porcelain, with undertones of silver, gold, or violet.
- Eyes: Bright and often unnaturally reflective—silver, ice blue, amethyst.
- Hair: Ranges from platinum blond to ash-gold, white, or muted silver.
- Posture: Upright and formal; gestures are deliberate, and expressions are restrained.
- Magic Affinity: Natural aptitude for arcane arts.
Elven Lineage
The elves of Alathra trace their origins to the L’nai, the First Elves—primordial beings of long life, arcane potential, and fluid essence. Over the ages, the L’nai gave rise to multiple branches through divergence in philosophy, environment, and magical affinity.
From the L’nai emerged the Aure’lai (Sun Elves), Sira’nai (Star Elves), and Elva’rai (Moon Elves), who formed the three great ancient lineages. Each of these lines would, in time, fragment further into the modern elven subraces of today: the imperial Vel’nai (High Elves), exiled subterranean Mor’nai (Low Elves), extinct seaborne Dor’nai (Tide Elves), forest-bound Silva’rai (Wood Elves), and the remote Zaure’lai (Ash Elves).
Scattered among all lineages are the rare Veyari, shapeshifters born with residual echoes of the L’nai essence. Though rare, they are found across all elven communities and maintain no distinct homeland of their own.
