The Elves are members of the Nuian Alliance on the western continent. Similar to Nuians in basic form but more elegant, they possess an otherworldly beauty envied by other races. Their motto, "The blood of life is Honor, and the blood of death the same," reflects a culture that places honor above survival.
History
During the Great Migration from Auroria, the Elves traced their own route through the gates of the Hereafter. The crossing was catastrophic for their civilization: their entire royal court disappeared in transit. Their king, Aranzeb, was lost, and his memory transformed into crystals scattered through the underworld. These crystals became objects of sorrow for the Elven people, physical manifestations of grief that endured across centuries.
After reaching the new continent, the Elves withdrew from broader civilization entirely. They settled deep in forests, avoiding contact with other races whenever possible. Outsiders found their behavior puzzling and incomprehensible. Over time, the Elves became known as both "mysterious and terrifying" to their neighbors.
Culture
Elven society is insular and grief-haunted. They rejected the cooperative rebuilding efforts of other races to focus on restoring their own civilization on their own terms. They hope for an honorable death and actively seek out danger regardless of the odds. This is not suicidal recklessness; it is a cultural belief that a worthy death holds the same value as a worthy life. Every Elf carries the weight of their lost kingdom and the disappearance of their royal line.
Starting area and mount
Elven players begin near Gweonid Forest, close to Gweonid Lake. Their racial mount is the Elk, available in three variants: Violet Elk, Green Elk, and White Elk. The Elk reflects the Elven connection to the forests they call home.
Racial abilities
Lithe Flow: Increases swim speed by 5% and extends underwater breath by 20-30 seconds, matching the Elves' natural affinity with water and the natural world
Earth Lover: Boosts nearby allies' mount maximum health by 10%, representing the Elven bond with the living creatures around them
These abilities may be modified or replaced in ArcheAge Chronicles.