Wood Elves are a rare sight in the Reikland, and for good reason. During the closing stages of the War of the Beard, most Elves retreated from the Old World, but a few remained and withdrew to the depths of the magical forests they now called home. Over three thousand years of isolation, hardship, and warfare then ensued, leaving ‘Wood Elves’ culturally very different to their High Elf cousins.

Wood Elf life is entwined with nature, with a society intermixed with spirits of the forest. They are separatists who work hard to hide themselves away, with arboreal outposts cunningly concealed with powerful illusions and misleading magics. On the rare occasions they travel beyond their borders, it is usually for war, as often with their neighbours as with darker forces, leaving other peoples of the Old World deeply unsure of the fae, capricious Elves.
There are two kiths of Wood Elves most commonly seen in Reikland. The ‘Asrai’ from Athel Loren across the Grey Mountains, and ‘Eonir’ of the Laurelorn Forest far to the north in Nordland.
The ruthless Asrai of Athel Loren are xenophobic and secretive, and rarely venture beyond their borders. However, a decade ago, Naith the Prophetess foresaw the possible death of Athel Loren. In response, the King and Queen of the Wood, recognising the fate of their forests may lay in the hands of outsiders, sent tattooed kinbands out from Athel Loren to take action, hunting the enemies of the forest at the source.
These ferocious bands are sometimes led by a spellsinger who calls upon the old, magical paths of the Worldroot to transport them between Athel Loren and the depths of other forests long lost to the Elves, but not yet consumed by civilisation or Chaos. Occasionally, these wild hunters perceive some common cause with other Old Worlders and an individual may step from the shadows to join with those fighting a greater evil.
By comparison, the Queen of the Laurelorn takes a very different path to the foretellings given to her and has recently sent a sizeable delegation to make camp in the deep forest of the Amber Hills just south of Altdorf. These Elves observe Human politics concerning the Laurelorn and beyond, and occasionally intervene on matters deemed important. The camp is viewed as a ‘temporary’ solution by the Elves, but the meaning of that word is very different to the long-lived species. Because of this camp, these Wood Elves are a growing presence in Reikland as they venture from the trees and wander according to their inscrutable purposes, often as hunters or entertainers.
Sylvan Cousins
The Wood Elves of Athel Loren and the Laurelorn may share a common history and origin in the Old World, but they are culturally different. Unlike the High Elves, neither of the Wood Elven kiths care much for any form of conventional civilisation, seeing it as a threat to their beloved forests and way of life. However, they differ in how they choose to express this.
The Laurelorn Wood Elves proactively engage in politics to protect themselves, mixing with others, and are not above stoking the fires of hatred between other groups to shift focus to their preferred targets. Thus, in character, they are more like the High Elves, whilst still having the Skills and Talents of the Wood Elves.
By comparison, the Athel Loren kinbands prefer to hide in the shadows, shunning contact with all others, instead striking deadly blows designed to cause fear and terror in the hearts of any who would look to the forest with greed.
Opinions
On Reiklander Humans, Algwyllmyr Twiceseen, Seer from Athel Loren…
I see hateful creatures with darkness in their hearts and a
complete disrespect for order. But they are widespread, warlike,
and, most importantly, easy to manipulate. Given winter draws
near, it is time to use them.
On Dwarfs, Meridrynda Aspengate, Glade Rider from Athel Loren…
More stubborn than the Oak of Ages, they understand one
argument only: force. So, use it swiftly and decisively, and be
aware they will return for petty vengeance at a later date.
On Halflings, Alafael Harrowlay, Entertainer from the Laurelorn…
I met one when travelling Middenland during the ninth year of
Queen Marrisith. It talked a lot. And I do mean a lot. When we
parted ways by a town it told me was named “Delberz”, I found it
had somehow managed to steal several pouches of herbs from my
belt. I was impressed. So, I suggest not trusting the things, but the
companionship and local lore they share may be worth the cost!
On High Elves, Cynwrawn Fartrack, Hunter from the Laurelorn…
Conceited beyond any sensible measure, don’t approach the Asur.
They are jaded, arrogant, and likely lost to Atharti. And if they
try to look down on you in that superior manner they so prefer,
just remind them their Queen in Avelorn lives a life no different
to ours.