Physical Description:
Dark Elves exhibit distinctive features that set them apart from other elves. They often have obsidian or pale, ashen skin tones, contrasting sharply with their hair, which can be stark white or jet black. Their eyes, keen and penetrating, often shimmer in hues of crimson, violet, or pale silver. Physically, they are similar in height to their elven kin, standing between 5 and 6 feet tall. They possess a lean, wiry build, emphasizing agility and stealth.
History:
The history of the Dark Elves is intertwined with a journey into the deepest, most foreboding parts of the underworld. Once among the eldest of the elves, they ventured into the abyss, forever changed upon their return. This transformation has often led to them being misunderstood and cast aside by other elven societies. Forging their way back to the surface, they established their domains in regions shunned by others. Despite their tainted reputation among other elven kind, Dark Elves have built thriving societies, embracing their newfound power and influence.
Society:
Dark Elf society is characterized by power struggles, intrigue, and a hedonistic pursuit of pleasure. Dominating the seas around the Vache Kingdom, they are adept seafarers and have carved a formidable place for themselves in maritime trade and naval dominance. Their hierarchical society is often ruthless and oppressive, with powerful families vying for control and influence. The ruling elite emphasize their superiority over other races, especially other elven societies, and often engage in manipulative and cunning political maneuvers to maintain their status quo.
Racial Names:
Dark Elf names often possess a lyrical quality, with elegant sounds that reflect their sophisticated heritage. Names like Veldrin, Malice, Drizzt, or Liriel are common among them. Surnames are typically indicative of the noble house or lineage.
Racial Feat:
- Ability Score Increase: Dark Elves Charisma score increases by 1.
- Age: Dark Elves have a lifespan comparable to their surface-dwelling kin, living up to 750 years or more. They mature at a slower rate, reaching adulthood around 100 years old.
- Alignment: Dark Elves often lean towards a chaotic or neutral alignment, prioritizing individual goals over societal harmony.
- Size: Dark Elves are medium-sized creatures, standing between 5 to 6 feet tall.
- Speed: Dark Elves have a base walking speed of 30 feet.
- Languages: Dark Elves can speak, read, and write Common and Elvish, and often possess knowledge of Undercommon and other languages spoken in the depths.
- Vision: Dark Elves have superior darkvision, enabling them to see in complete darkness up to 120 feet.
- Resistance: Dark Elves have resistance to being charmed, reflecting their strong wills and complex minds.
- Immunity: Dark Elves are immune to magical sleep effects, a trait inherited from their subterranean adaptation.
Sunlight Sensitivity
They have disadvantage on attack rolls and on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight when they, the target of they attack, or whatever they are trying to perceive is in direct sunlight.
Dark Elf Magic
They know the dancing lights cantrip. When they reach 3rd level, they can cast the faerie fire spell once with this trait and regain the ability to do so when they finish a long rest. When they reach 5th level, they can cast the darkness spell once with this trait and regain the ability to do so when they finish a long rest. Charisma is their spellcasting ability for these spells.
Dark Elf Weapon Training
Their have proficiency with rapiers, shortswords, and hand crossbows.