Physical Description
The Veloren Elves are a rare and mystical branch of the Therannis, bearing distinct traits that mark their celestial origins. Most notably, Veloren Elves possess antler-like horns that gracefully adorn their heads, varying in size, shape, and intricate patterns. These antlers are more than mere ornamentation; they are deeply entwined with their innate magic, often pulsing with faint light during moments of spellcasting or heightened emotion.
Their skin carries a faint luminescence, often in shades of moonlit silver, forest jade, or pale ashwood, reflecting their bond with nature and the celestial moon Drekk. Their eyes are ethereal and reflective, reminiscent of starlight glimmering upon still waters—shimmering hues of silver, pale gold, or deep emerald. Veloren Elves possess elongated, delicate ears that are even more pronounced than their elven kin, allowing them to perceive the faintest whispers of the wind and the secrets of the forest.
Their hair ranges from snowy white and midnight black to verdant green, with strands that seem to ripple with a life of their own, often braided with vines, feathers, or woven flowers as symbols of their bond with the wilderness. Unlike the Sea Elves' sleek aquatic adaptations, Veloren Elves are marked by their graceful agility and preternatural awareness of their surroundings, allowing them to move with near silence through even the densest of forests.
History
The Veloren Elves trace their origins back to the ancient moon Drekk, which they claim is the cradle of their ancestors. Legends speak of a time when the moon's light kissed the Great Weald during a celestial alignment, blessing a faction of the Therannis with Drekk’s essence. These chosen elves underwent a metamorphosis, marked by the growth of antlers and a heightened connection to the primal magic of the land.
For centuries, the Veloren lived in seclusion within enchanted forests hidden from mortal eyes. These sacred groves were rumored to be sanctuaries where the veil between worlds thinned, allowing for glimpses of Drekk's influence even from Midora. Veloren communities thrived in isolation, practicing powerful nature magic and communing with ancient spirits that roamed the mist-laden glades.
However, in the Fourth Age, an encroaching threat of abyssal corruption in the Stormwoods forced the Veloren Elves to flee their hidden sanctuaries. Many sought refuge within the cities of Rivermond and Vikholm, where they were welcomed by their distant cousins, the Wood Elves. This migration marked the first significant emergence of Veloren society into the broader world.
Society and Culture
Veloren society is both harmonious and deeply spiritual, structured around ancient rites and a profound reverence for nature. Unlike the hierarchical and political structures of the Valarith, Veloren Elves favor councils of elders known as the Horns of Drekk, where decisions are guided by omens, lunar cycles, and the will of nature itself. Their settlements, known as Gloamwealds, are hidden among towering trees and moonlit groves, where nature and architecture are seamlessly entwined.
Worship and Spirituality:
The Veloren Elves revere two primary archangels:
- Tytan of Drekk – The Eternal Watcher of the Moon, who guards the secrets of the night and bestows blessings upon those who walk the hidden paths. Veloren druids often meditate beneath moonlight to seek Tytan’s guidance.
- Chorian, Guardian of the Verdant Realms – The protector of Midora’s wildlands, who is believed to watch over every leaf and whispering breeze. Veloren Elves craft living totems of woven vines and enchanted wood to honor Chorian, believing them to hold fragments of his spirit.
Rituals are performed under the full moon, where antlered shamans called Drekkweavers lead ceremonies to bless the land, bind corruption, and renew their connection with the spirits. These ceremonies are often accompanied by haunting melodies sung in Sylvanni, the ancient tongue of the Veloren.
Communities and Adaptation:
Since their exodus from the Stormwoods, Veloren Elves have seamlessly integrated into mortal cities—particularly those with strong ties to nature like Rivermond. Their presence has revitalized old druidic traditions and fostered stronger bonds with the Wood Elves, who regard the Veloren with a mix of reverence and curiosity.
Despite their recent integration, Veloren communities remain tight-knit, fiercely protecting their traditions and secrets from prying eyes. Trade with mortals is common, with Veloren artisans known for crafting moonsteel weaponry and enchanting wooden charms that enhance nature-based magic.
Names and Language
Veloren names are poetic and evoke the mystical beauty of nature and celestial grandeur. Their language, Sylvanni, is a dialect of Therannis Elvish, infused with older druidic chants and arcane intonations. It is a melodic tongue often sung rather than spoken during rituals.
Common first names: Elarian (Moonlit Guardian), Vaelithra (Whisper of the Glade), Sylvren (Starlight Walker), Thariviel (Keeper of the Veil)
Surnames reflect their bond with nature: Moonstride, Gloamheart, Antlerveil. Wyrdweaver
Relations with Other Elves and Mortals
The Veloren Elves maintain strong ties with the Wood Elves, with whom they share many druidic practices. Their recent arrival in mortal cities has been met with fascination, and Veloren enchantments are highly sought after in markets across Rivermond and Vikholm. They remain wary of the Umbraith (Dark Elves), whose dabbling in entropy and shadowcraft contradicts the Veloren reverence for natural harmony.
Mortal kingdoms, particularly those that border enchanted forests, have formed pacts with the Veloren for protection against supernatural threats. Many Veloren have become Warden-Knights and Grovekeepers in these regions, using their mastery of natural magic to maintain the delicate balance between civilization and the wild.