Physical Description:
Wood Elves, in harmony with nature, share an inherent connection to their surroundings. They tend to be slightly shorter and more agile than their High Elf relatives, standing around 5 feet tall. Their skin often bears a sun-kissed tan or a rich bronze hue, a testament to their outdoor lifestyles. Their hair mirrors the shades of the forest, from deep browns to vibrant greens and russet reds, and they wear it long, adorned with natural ornaments like leaves or flowers. Their eyes are keen, often in shades of green or brown, mirroring the colors of the woods they call home.
History:
The history of Wood Elves is deeply rooted in their reverence for nature. As civilizations spread, the Wood Elves retreated to the forests and secluded regions, valuing their ancient ways and traditions. They remember an era when elves and nature existed in perfect harmony. Over time, as urbanization encroached upon their lands, they became guardians and stewards of the natural world, protecting it from the spread of civilization and the impact of industrialization. Their gradual withdrawal from society led to a decrease in their numbers, as Wood Elves preferred to live in smaller, scattered communities, maintaining an existence dedicated to preserving the beauty and balance of nature.
Society:
Wood Elves are deeply ingrained in the rhythms of the natural world. Their societies are often nomadic, moving with the changing seasons and the cycles of nature. Some groups prefer to live in harmony with the forests, residing in dwellings woven from the very branches and leaves of the trees. Others have chosen to integrate into cities, often maintaining their kinship with nature by running herb shops, taverns, or establishments that align with their love for the wild. While they excel in archery and possess inherent combat skills, Wood Elves prefer pacifism and only resort to conflict when absolutely necessary. Their affinity for hunting, singing, dancing, and merrymaking showcases their joyous appreciation for life's simpler pleasures.
Racial Names:
Wood Elves often possess names inspired by nature and the elements. Names like Elenwe, Thranduil, Galanodel, or Meliamne are common among them. Surnames may denote lineage or affiliations with natural elements.
Racial Feat:
- Ability Score Increase: Wood Elves Wisdom score increases by 1.
- Age: Wood Elves are long-lived, typically reaching ages over 700 years. They mature slowly, coming of age around 100, but remain vital well into their later years.
- Alignment: Wood Elves often lean towards a chaotic alignment, valuing personal freedom and harmony with nature.
- Size: Wood Elves are medium-sized creatures, standing around 5 feet tall.
- Speed: Wood Elves have a base walking speed of 35 feet, moving nimbly through their forest homes.
- Languages: Wood Elves can speak, read, and write Common and Elvish, and often learn additional languages, especially those tied to nature.
- Vision: Wood Elves possess keen vision, allowing them to see in low light conditions.
- Resistance: Wood Elves have a natural resistance to sleep magic, reflecting their attunement to the natural world's rhythms.
- Immunity: Wood Elves are immune to magical sleep effects, an inherent trait of their connection to the woods and the spirits within.
Elf Weapon Training
They have proficiency with the longsword, shortsword, shortbow, and longbow.
Mask of the Wild
They can attempt to hide even when you are only lightly obscured by foliage, heavy rain, falling snow, mist, and other natural phenomena.