Wowpedia

We have moved to Warcraft Wiki. Click here for information and the new URL.

READ MORE

Wowpedia
Register
(Created page with "The fighting sorceress Veth'talia was known as much for her combat abilities as her mastery of the arcane arts. Among her most priced possesions was this small shield car...")
Ā 
Ā 
Line 1: Line 1:
  +
{{Racebox
āˆ’
The fighting sorceress [[Veth'talia]] was known as much for her combat abilities as her mastery of the [[arcane]] arts. Among her most priced possesions was this small shield carved from a single block of wood drawn form the heart og an ancient tree felled by lightning. This shield is unnaturally light and easy to handle.<ref> [[Magic & Mayhem]], pg 116</ref>
 
  +
| image = High_Elf_War_Mage.jpg
  +
| name = High elves, the Sun-Blessed
  +
| capital = None, though many reside in [[Stormwind]], [[Theramore]], [[Dalaran]] and in other cities of the [[Alliance]] (formerly [[Silvermoon]])
  +
| faction = Alliance, [[The Silver Covenant]], [[Kirin Tor]], [[Argent Crusade]], [[Independent]]
  +
| character = [[Hunter]], [[Mage]], [[Paladin]], [[Priest]], [[Rogue]], [[Warlock]], [[Warrior]] (WoW);<!--Dalaran class trainers--><ref>[[Dalaran_NPCs#The_Silver_Enclave]]</ref> [[Death Knight]], [[Ranger]], [[Wizard]], [[Sorcerer]], [[Arcanist]], [[Dead shot]], [[Argent Dawn templar]], [[Scout]], [[Warmage]], [[Necromancer]], [[Battle mage]], [[Archmage]] (RPG),
  +
| mount = [[Elven horse]], [[Hippogryph]] (Formely [[Dragonhawk]])
  +
| homeworld = [[Azeroth (world)|Azeroth]]
  +
| language = [[Thalassian]], [[Common (language)|Common]]
  +
| slang = [[Darnassian]], [[Dwarven]], [[Goblin]], [[Kalimdoran]], [[Orcish]] (RPG)
  +
| leader = Formerly the [[Sunstrider]] dynasty. Variously led by: <!--DO NOT add any of the Sisters Windrunner or other sub-faction leaders. These are NOT confirmed or even implied racial leaders. See 'Silver Covenant' under Talk Page---><br>[[Captain Darill]]<br>[[Auric Sunchaser]]<br>[[Jalinde Summerdrake]]<br>[[Vyrin Swiftwind]]<br>[[Vereesa Windrunner]]
  +
| exact = 5'1" - 6'1" (155 to 185 cm) (male),<br />4'9" - 5'9" (145 to 175 cm) (female)
  +
}}
   
  +
The '''high elves''', or '''quel'dorei''' ("children of noble birth" in [[Darnassian]] and "high elves" in [[Thalassian]]), are a race descended from the [[Highborne]] [[night elves]] who left [[Kalimdor]] and settled in the [[Eastern Kingdoms]], founding [[Quel'Thalas]].
āˆ’
==References==
 
āˆ’
{{reflist}}
 
   
  +
The high elves were once a significant force on the continent, but in recent times their numbers have been dramatically reduced: 90% of their race was slaughtered in the [[Third War]].<ref name="Lands of Conflict 113">''[[Lands of Conflict]]'', pg. 113</ref> Following this, another 90% of the survivors changed their name to "[[blood elves]]" in remembrance of their fallen brethren, and no longer consider themselves high elven.<ref name="info429">{{ref web|title=High Elves|work=The Warcraft Encyclopedia, Encyclopedia &gt; Mortal Races &gt; High Elves and Blood Elves|url=http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/info/encyclopedia/429.xml|accessdate=30-Nov-2010}}</ref> Around 25,000 true high elves remain, most of whom cling to the [[Alliance]] trying to restore the glory of their once great people.
āˆ’
[[Category:Armor]]
 
  +
āˆ’
[[Category:Magic & Mayhem]]
 
  +
==Description==
  +
The ancient origin of the high elves is a legacy of tragedy and conflict, a series of events that has profoundly affected the development of the quel'dorei. The high elves are a stark contrast to their nocturnal cousins, the [[night elves]] (or kaldorei). Embracing the light of the [[sun]]<ref>"Forever after, they would embrace the sun and be known only as the high elves. " - {{ref web|title=Exile of the High Elves|work=History of Warcraft, Chapter 1|url=http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/info/story/chapter1.html#10|accessdate=30-Nov-2010}}</ref> and forsaking the night, the high elves are the descendants of the very elves who served [[Queen Azshara]] in the time of the [[Well of Eternity]]. The kaldorei regard the high elven penchant for using arcane magic as careless, akin to a foolish child playing with fire. The schism that separates the [[Highborne]] elves and the night elves is rather ancient, one so ancient that no amount of diplomacy or offerings of peace can soothe the scars of history. The high elves, however, have had generations separating them from the night elves, and no longer care for the past. Problems between the two races are usually clashes of personality, as neither tries overly hard to interact. The arrogance of the high elves led to the [[War of the Ancients]] and ultimately to the downfall of the golden age of elven civilization. Through the reckless use of arcane magic, the high elves allowed darkness to seep into the world and corrupt [[Azeroth (world)|Azeroth]]. They use the genetic phenomenon that modern elves face as testament to their views.
  +
  +
[[Arcane]] [[magic]] is a powerful drug to the high elves, and it can be a lure to a dark and perilous path. Yet too many wield it as if they were doing no harm, and few but the oldest and most sage can recall the true reasons why the use of such magic is a dangerous and potentially damning practice. Regardless of the risks, some high elves press onwards to revel in the euphoria and power that the use of magic brings them. The high elves are a tragic example of a race in decline. Their centuries of arcane practice have led them into an ever-tightening downward spiral. Now there are few true Quelā€™dorei left. Most have gone with [[Kael'thas Sunstrider]] to become the [[blood elves]], and in doing so have allied with the sworn enemies of elvenkind, the naga. Now the scant remaining Quelā€™dorei are typically those who have embraced the Light and seen past the powers of arcane magic and darkness. Distrusted by almost all of the races, the remaining high elves are pariahs in an age when there is little left for them but a life of mistrust and woe.<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 36">''[[World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game]]'', pg. 36</ref>
  +
  +
== History ==
  +
===Exile of the Highborne===
  +
[[File:Dath'Remar.jpg|thumb|[[Dath'Remar Sunstrider]], first of the high elves.]]
  +
  +
When the night elves adopted druidism, they outlawed the practice of arcane magic. The use of its dangerous powers was punishable by death. However, many Highborne loyalists of [[Queen Azshara]] survived the [[Great Sundering|Sundering]] and grew restless. They suffered from magical withdrawal, and 7,300 years before the invasion of the Horde through the Dark Portal, they spoke against [[Malfurion Stormrage]] and the [[Druid]]s.
  +
  +
[[Dath'Remar Sunstrider]], the leader of this movement, declared the druids cowards for refusing to wield the arcane. Malfurion and the druids warned the Highborne that any use of magic would be punishable by death. Yet, in an attempt to protest the druidā€™s law, Dath'Remar and his followers unleashed a terrible magical storm upon [[Ashenvale]].
  +
  +
The druids could not bring themselves to put so many of their kin to death, so they decided to exile the reckless Highborne from their lands. Sunstrider and his followers boarded a number of specially crafted ships and set sail upon the seas. By now the Highborne were glad to be rid of their conservative cousins and free to practice the arcane with impunity.
  +
  +
None knew what lay beyond the Maelstrom, but they eventually found the Eastern Kingdoms and formed their own magical realm. They abandoned the concepts of Elune and nocturnal activity, embracing the sun instead. They would soon become known as the high elves.
  +
  +
===Foundation of Quelā€™Thalas===
  +
Sunstrider led the high elven fleets across the world for many long years. Their goal was to find places of considerable ley power for them to build their new homeland. After landing on the [[Lordaeron]] continent, they moved inland and formed a settlement in the [[Tirisfal Glades]]. After a few years, however, many were driven insane. The belief at the time was that something evil slept beneath the Glades, so the high elves abandoned the region and moved northwards.
  +
  +
Around this time, they had become completely severed from the life-giving energy of the [[Well of Eternity]]. This meant that they were vulnerable to the elements and had not received immortality from Nozdormu and the World Tree. They had shrunk in height and their skin had become a peach hue similar to most [[dwarves]] and [[humans]]. The high elves soon discovered primitive [[humans]], but associated little with them. The [[Trolls|forest trolls]] of [[Zul'Aman]], under the [[Amani Empire]], posed the greater threat to their society. The [[elves]] soon grew to hate the forest trolls and they fought each other whenever they met.
  +
  +
After many more years, the high elves discovered a land in the northern forests which suited them, and founded the kingdom of [[Quel'Thalas]]. Unfortunately, they would learn that Quelā€™Thalas was founded on a sacred and ancient troll city. The trolls began to attack the elven settlements en masse in retaliation. Although the Amani outnumbered them ten to one, the elves utilized magic to its fullest effect and defeated the trolls.
  +
  +
Some elves, wary of the kaldorei's warnings, created a protective barrier around Quelā€™Thalas which allowed them to continue their magic without attracting the [[Burning Legion]]ā€™s attention. To do this, they employed a series of monolithic [[Runestones]].
  +
  +
[[File:High Elf Establishment2.jpg|thumb|[[Quel'Thalas]] was guarded by [[elfgate]]s.]]
  +
Soon, Quelā€™Thalas became a shining monument to high elven prowess. It was crafted in the same style as the halls of [[Kalimdor]]<ref name="ch2-12">{{ref web|title=The Founding of Quel'Thalas|work=History of Warcraft, Chapter 2|url=http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/info/story/chapter2.html#12|accessdate=30-Nov-2010}}</ref>, with the addition of integrated [[magic]] and a brighter colour scheme. Although they did not worship it, a great respect was maintained for nature. The high elves were careful to interweave their cities and architecture with their natural surroundings, creating a truly beautiful and tranquil land.<ref name="ch2-12"/>
  +
  +
To sate their hunger for great magical power, the high elves created the [[Sunwell]]. It became the source of their power as the [[Well of Eternity]] had been in Kalimdor, although the Sunwell was much weaker, and the elves were forewarned of the dangers. As the high elves became more powerful, they cast an enchantment on the forests that bathed Quel'Thalas in eternal springtime, in defiance of the kingdom's location on the extreme north of the continent. From that point on, all high elves had access to the Sunwell's powers from anywhere on [[Azeroth (world)|Azeroth]]. Over time, the high elves came to regard the Sunwell's waters as holy. Magic became part of their genes centuries before, but the Sunwell's unique energies became part of them acutely.<ref name="info429"/>
  +
  +
===New world patterns and the Thalassian kingdom===
  +
For nearly four thousand years, the high elves remained relatively at peace. But while the elves established their nation, the Amani plotted their next assault. 2,800 years before the [[First War]], they unleashed it upon the high elves. [[The Troll Wars]] ignited. Suffering loss after loss, the high elves turned to the [[human]]s of [[Arathor]] for support. The two formed a military alliance in exchange for the instruction of 100 humans in [[arcane magic]]. Together, they crushed the Amani; an empire that had endured for more than twenty thousand years. Humans and high elves have cultivated this alliance ever since.
  +
  +
The high elves also established relations with the [[Dwarves|Ironforge Dwarves]] to the far south, when the human nations of [[Gilneas]] and [[Alterac]] encountered them more than a thousand years later. The two races had no special bond and tended to distrust one another. When allied, it was through their common ties to the humans.
  +
  +
Yet 230 years before the First War, the dwarven race split into three factions (See [[War of the Three Hammers]]). The [[Wildhammer Clan|Wildhammers]] desired to open up trade with the high elves, considered taboo at the time, and would serve as one of the catalysts for their war.<ref name="Lands of Conflict 67">''Lands of Conflict'', pg. 67</ref> When it ended, the clan became close allies to the high elves. The two races were united through a mutual appreciation for nature and other cultural similarities.<ref name="Lands of Conflict 99">''Lands of Conflict'', pg. 99</ref> They would soon become each otherā€™s closest friends within the Alliance.
  +
  +
===War and the fall of Quel'Thalas===
  +
Peace in Quelā€™Thalas continued for almost three thousand years until the [[Second War]]. The [[Orc|orcish Horde]] came through a portal from the world of [[Draenor]] at the advent of the [[First War]], and defeated the [[Stormwind (kingdom)|Kingdom of Stormwind]]. They then brought [[ogres]] into [[Azeroth (world)|Azeroth]], and allied with the [[goblins]] and [[forest trolls]], turning their sights on the north. The high elves only helped out on a small level in the First War. After the humans were defeated and fled north through [[Khaz Modan]], the dwarves sent emissaries to meet with the high elves and humans to discuss the threat of the Horde.<ref name="Alliance Player's Guide 129">''[[Alliance Player's Guide]]'', pg. 129</ref>
  +
  +
When the humans proposed an Alliance of their seven nations, the [[Wildhammer]] and [[Ironforge]] dwarves, the [[gnomes]], and the high elves, the elves were honour-bound to join it due to their ancestral connection with [[Arathi]], of whom [[Anduin Lothar]] was the last pure-blooded scion. Under [[Anasterian Sunstrider]], they were the least enthusiastic of the alliance and put forth only a token army.
  +
  +
However, the orcs' northern campaign, in which the trolls were meant to take back their ancestral homes from the high elves, managed to burn down the borderlands of Quelā€™Thalas, slaughtering many high elves in the process, and corrupting the Runestone at [[Caer Darrow]]. This enraged [[Silvermoon]], which promptly pledged its full support to the war. The [[Horde]] eventually splintered under [[Gul'dan|internal political pressure]], and the Alliance charged southwards to crush it. The Second War was won.
  +
  +
In the aftermath, some high elves blamed the humans' poor leadership for the burning of their forests. King Terenas of [[Lordaeron]] reminded them that nothing of [[Quel'Thalas]] would have remained if not for the hundreds of [[humans]] that gave their lives to defend it, but nevertheless, the high elves largely abandoned the Alliance. [[Alleria Windrunner]], sister to [[Sylvanas]], and a cadre of her elven rangers remained loyal to Alliance High Command, but they were eventually [[Alliance Expedition|lost]] on the other side of the [[Dark Portal]]. Her sister [[Vereesa]] also advocated continued support to the Alliance after the [[Day of the Dragon|Grim Batol incident]], but Anasterian was not swayed.
  +
  +
It should be noted that although the high elves retreated from the Alliance, a large number of them remained in [[Dalaran]] and were loyal to the Alliance through the [[Kirin Tor]].
  +
  +
[[File:Sylvanashelf.jpg|right|thumb|[[Sylvanas Windrunner]] battling the Scourge as they march for Silvermoon]]
  +
Years later, the [[Scourge]] came forth. Its commander, [[Arthas Menethil]], obliterated the leading nation of [[Lordaeron]] and then turned their sights on Quelā€™Thalas. Their goal was to revive a human man named [[Kel'Thuzad]], who could summon the demon-lord [[Archimonde]] into Azeroth. To do this, they required a source of considerable ley magic, and chose the [[Sunwell]].
  +
  +
The high elves were still recovering from their grievous injuries at the hands of the [[Horde]], but faced the Scourge in battle regardless. This time, there would be no human army to rescue them. The high elven army, lead by the [[Sylvanas Windrunner|Ranger General Sylvanas Windrunner]], made counter attacks every time the scourge advanced. Despite their tactics and magic the elves were pushed back from the outer, to inner elf gates. Finally Arthas and his army, as well as new banshees, including Sylvanas, advanced on Silvermoon and crushed the defenders. Anasterian himself was killed by the Scourge.
  +
  +
The Sunwell was used to resurrect Kel'Thuzad, and fouled with evil in the process. The Scourge then set about to commit genocide on a massive scale. Only about ten percent of the entire race survived. Some of them were lucky enough to be away from their home at the time (many were housed at Dalaran and others had already fled with [[Jaina Proudmoore|Jaina]]), but the majority of them survived only by defending themselves or hiding.
  +
  +
Soon, [[Dalaran]], with the second greatest concentration of high elves, was destroyed as well. Dalaran's defeat was swift and complete, and most of the high elves there died under Archimonde's attacks. Other elves died afterward from bandits that came to sift through the wreckage.
  +
  +
===Splintering===
  +
The remaining elves throughout the continent were scattered, and clung to the Alliance for protection, until [[Kael'thas Sunstrider]], son of the deceased Anasterian, began to organize them by reclaiming every last elf on the Eastern Continents. Under his leadership, they took the name [[blood elves]], to remember the death of their bethren. The blood elves account for the vast majority of the high elves' previous population.
  +
  +
Per Kael'thas instructions, some blood elves started slowly rebuilding Silvermoon. A significant group, led by Kael'thas himself, started traveling throughout the land in order to find more surviving elves, and to find a source of magic to replace the Sunwell. The elves were suffering from great withdrawals after being cut off the Sunwell because of its destruction. Due to the unreasonable orders of the Alliance leader [[Garithos]], Kael's people were forced to ally themselves with the [[Naga]] and fled to [[Outland]]. They soon joined [[Illidan]] there, and he in turn taught them how to sate their hunger for magic by feeding on alternative sources (having himself suffered the same withdrawal for thousands of years). The blood elves began to hunt and use Demons in order to steal their powers, merely using them as tools.
  +
  +
The blood elves who did not travel with Kael'thas to Outland allied themselves with the Horde through their connections to the Banshee Queen Sylvanas Windrunner, now leader of the [[Forsaken]]. Although the blood elves harbor very little trust for the Horde, they also have come to hate much of the Alliance ā€” humans (and to a lesser extent dwarves) in particular. Their relationship with their ancestor race the [[night elves]] is not flourishing, but they are not dire enemies either, as distance between their locations has meant less contact between each other and fewer situations to arise that would cause fighting.
  +
  +
Some of the blood elves led to Outland by Kael'thas, including Kael himself, eventually broke away from those left in Silvermoon. The Silvermoon elves, who considered themselves a part of the Horde, began to oppose Kael'thas as disturbing new facts came to light. Illidan had gone mad, and Kael'thas had abandoned him and sworn allegiance to the demons of the [[Burning Legion]]. In addition to the separation this caused between Kael'thas's group and the Horde, a large army of elves who had followed Kael'thas to Outland defected and joined the [[Sha'tar]]. This faction, the [[Scryers]], is not aligned with the Horde nor the Alliance.
  +
  +
Those few elves of the Alliance who have remained as high elves have become enemies to their once brothers-in-arms. They are dispersed throughout many lands and Alliance outposts.
  +
  +
===Current status===
  +
[[File:Epicranger.jpg|[[Epic elven ranger]].|thumb]]
  +
High elves are currently found primarily scattered throughout human societies, thereby being forced to rely on the hospitality of the younger race. This dependency has resulted in some high elves vigorously trying to find a new homeland, with possibly a new source of magic. The status of their blood elven counterpart has resulted in them being shunned by most of the Alliance, particularly the night elves.
  +
  +
Human cities hold the highest population density of high elves. Dalaran currently has the highest concentration. On the continent of Northrend, a faction of high elves are led by [[Vereesa Windrunner]] against the blood elves under the name of [[The Silver Covenant]]. Despite the open hostility, many others have decided to stay with the Kirin Tor as neutral.
  +
  +
The high elves even maintain a presence in Lordaeron. [[Ranger Lord Hawkspear]] and [[Aurora Skycaller]] once maintained a vigil over the [[Eastern Plaguelands]] from the [[Quel'Lithien Lodge]], sheltering their people within the intact elven lodge there. A small unit of high elven rangers under the command of Ranger Captain [[Fellari Swiftarrow]] fought together with the zealous [[Scarlet Crusade]] against the undead for a while, though they were lost in battle. A large statue in honor of the capable elven leader was erected in the [[Scarlet Monastery]].
  +
  +
Some bands of high elven survivors fled south to the [[Hinterlands]] and to the forests of [[Zul'Aman]]. Those who stay one step ahead of the trolls survive; those who do not are dead (and probably eaten by the cannibalistic trolls). Scourge patrols, hunting the elven refugees, also stalk through the land.<ref name="Lands of Conflict 98-99, 115">''Lands of Conflict'', pg. 98-99, 115</ref> Deep within the Hinterlands, the high elves of the [[Quel'Danil Lodge]] have their sights set on forming diplomatic alliances with other members of the Alliance.
  +
  +
Some high elves had already left with [[Jaina Proudmoore]] before the destruction of Quel'Thalas, to form the city-state of [[Theramore]] in Kalimdor. These elves had mostly severed ties with Quel'Thalas prior to its fall, and keep the name of high elf to this day. They take two out of the seven seats on the ruling council that advises Lady Jaina and play a key role in the governing of the city-state. Occasionally, ships come from Lordaeron bringing more of their people to the diverse city.
  +
  +
{{bc-section}}
  +
  +
The remnants of the [[Alliance Expedition]]'s high elven ranger cadre are currently stationed at the sizable [[Allerian Stronghold]] in [[Outland]].
  +
  +
{{wotlk-section}}
  +
  +
After the defeat of [[Kil'Jaeden]] the blood elves took the [[Sunwell]] back with the help of the [[Shattered Sun Offensive]], and the high elves were allowed to share the Sunwell. Captain [[Auric Sunchaser]] from the Alliance Expedition rangers represents the high elves at the well itself. The blood elves and high elves are still openly hostile to each other but this sharing of the Sunwell ''could'' pave the way for some form of fragile peace, thus far there has been no such progress.
  +
  +
[[Vereesa Windrunner]] attended the wedding of [[Tyrande Whisperwind]] and [[Malfurion Stormrage]] wih her husband and [[half-elf]] sons suggesting a thaw in [[night elf]]-high elf relations.<ref>''[[Stormrage]]'', p. 396</ref>
  +
  +
{{cata-section}}
  +
  +
Since the fall of the Lich King, the high elves' bane is no more, and seem to be taking a lesser role in world affairs. The [[Wintergrasp]] [[battlemaster]]s no longer have a presence in the Alliance cities, having likely returned to Dalaran. With the removal of the portals in the [[Silver Enclave]], class trainers, mostly high elven, have taken their place.
  +
  +
The elves at [[Quel'Lithien Lodge]] have [[Quest:Wretched Hive of Scum and Villainy|taken a turn for the worse]], after Ranger Lord Hawkspear discovered a source of seductive energy. However, the Quel'Danil Lodge elves have fared considerably better, having [[Quest:Quel'Danil Lodge|solidified relations]] with the draenei and the Wildhammer dwarves.
  +
  +
==Population==
  +
[[File:High elves.jpg|thumb|Two high elves: [[Joy Ar'nareth|Joy Ar'nareth]] and [[Rayan Dawnrisen|Rayan Dawnrisen]]]]
  +
Sources<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 9">''World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game'', pg. 9</ref> state that the high elven population just a few years prior was approximately 24,810 and the [[half-elf|half-elven]] population was approximately 9,550, not including Theramore, Dalaran, and several less significant cities. Stormwind (pop. 200,000)<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 13">''World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game'', pg. 13</ref><ref name="Lands of Conflict 52">''Lands of Conflict'', pg. 52</ref> alone has the most, with a total of 20,000 high elves, and 8,000 half elves.
  +
  +
When Kael'Thas founded the [[blood elves]], approximately 90%<ref name="info429"/> of the surviving high elven population left and joined his cause.
  +
  +
==Appearance==
  +
[[File:Oldhighelfs.jpg|thumb|High elves in old age]]
  +
  +
High elves stand slightly taller than humans do. A high elf is usually a little over 6 feet in height and weighs between 100 to 175 pounds, depending on gender. The elves are slim, with sharp symmetrical features, often an exaggeration of perfect beauty. The high elves are uniformly fair in complexion, with white to flaxen colored hair. Their eyes are incredibly intense in color, seeming to glow with an inner light. While many high elves have blue or green eyes (ex. Alleria),<ref name="Tides of Darkness 117">''[[Tides of Darkness]]'', pg. 117</ref> violet and red are not unheard of.<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 36"/> The structure of high elven eyes (based on artwork) shows that they are generally like humans with a pupil and iris surrounded by "white", but tend to be able to see much farther than humans are capable. The [[life span]] of high elves is several hundred years. They reach adulthood at 110 years, a "venerable" age at roughly 350 years, and most dying of old age at approximately 263 years. A few may reach "venerable" age at roughly 350 years with maximum lifespan between 354 and 390 years,<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 36,174">''World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game'', pg. 36, 174</ref> and even fewer may live as long as two thousand years.<ref name="Dungeons & Dragons Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 42">''[[Warcraft The Roleplaying Game]]'', pg. 42</ref><ref name="info339">{{ref web|title=High Elves and Blood Elves|work=The Warcraft Encyclopedia, Encyclopedia &gt; Mortal Races|url=http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/info/encyclopedia/339.xml|accessdate=30-Nov-2010}}</ref> Most high elves (especially those of the Alliance) do not wear red or black for fear of being mistaken as blood elves.<ref name="Alliance & Horde Compendium 68.">''[[Alliance & Horde Compendium]]'', pg. 68.</ref> They have shorter ears and much smaller, lighter bodies than [[night elves]]. As well, their ears usually point upwards whereas those of the night elves do not.
  +
  +
High elves have white, red, orange brown, black, and blonde colored hair and fair skin, most have brilliantly intense sapphire coloured eyes that glow (at least in World of Warcraft). In World of Warcraft high elves have blue, sapphire glowing eyes (but have more variation according to lore, including green eyes<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 36"/><ref name="Tides of Darkness 117"/>). The [[blood elves]] typically have only green, emerald glowing eyes to show their magic addiction and their newly acquired addiction to fel magic.
  +
  +
Blood elves and high elves are for the most part the same race in terms of underlying physical biology.<ref name="info339"/> However, blood elves have glowing green eyes and their hair and skin are much paler or otherwise unnaturally coloured,<ref>''[[Monster Guide]]'' p.64</ref> due to the absorption of fel energies during the period the Sunwell was lost. For the most part however, they are considered separate due to cultural differences more so than because of physical ones.<ref name="Alliance Player's Guide 12,123-131">''Alliance Player's Guide'', pg. 12,123-131</ref>
  +
  +
{{wow-section}}
  +
[[File:OldVyrin Swiftwind.jpg|100px|left|thumb|An in-game high elf before [[The Burning Crusade]] was released.]]
  +
  +
In World of Warcraft, the high elves closely resemble blood elves appearance-wise (they in fact share the same model, although High Elves have blue eyes as opposed to the green eyes of Blood Elves), but their voices are more mild-mannered like those of night elves (in the game, they use the same voices as Night Elves, although unsuitable lines, such as "Elune'adore", "Ishnu'alah" or "Goddess watch over you", are not used). [[Taela Everstride]] at [[Allerian Stronghold]] even says, somewhat bemusedly, "No, don't feel bad. I get that a lot... I'm a high elf, not a blood elf. Don't worry, I won't suck the magic out of you." However, other than greeting voices, high elves and blood elves do appear to share similar voice emotes in-game, particularly during combat. Before ''World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade'', in game high elves used modified night elf models.
  +
  +
==Culture==
  +
[[File:Highelf buildings.jpg||thumb|195x195px|High elven buildings often use a blue or green color scheme, possibly to differentiate them from the red-hued architecture of Quel'Thalas:- both the buildings destroyed in the Third War by Arthas and the identical new blood elf constructions.]]
  +
The destruction of the Sunwell has forced the high elves into decline, causing them to doubt the future of their once-proud race and drawing animosity toward them from other races who feel that the high elves have betrayed the Alliance. Most of the high elves have placed themselves under a self-imposed exile, ashamed of the damage that they have wrought upon the world of Lordaeron with their abuse of arcane magic.
  +
  +
While humans still accept the high elves because of the aid that both races provided each other during the most recent attacks of the Burning Legion, reinforcing the same bond that they had in both the Troll Wars and the Second War, many of the other races will only deal with the high elves if absolutely necessary. This is especially true after the acts of Kaelā€™thas Sunstrider. The night elves in particular do not care for the company of high elves (as they have personal memories of the war that spawned them) and in some cases can be openly hostile toward their sun-blessed brethren. The passing of time may heal these wounds, but the use of arcane magic will always draw a rift between these two breeds of elf.<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 36-37">''World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game'', pg. 36-37</ref>
  +
  +
It would not quite be correct to say that the high elves rejoined the Alliance. To many high elves, they never left. Nevertheless, they are often aloof and distant from their allies. They keep to themselves and enjoy wandering forests alone or in small groups. They also maintain the [[Quel'Danil Lodge]], an outpost in the Hinterlands which pursues their diplomatic interests and [[Quel'Lithien Lodge|Quel'Lithien]] in the Eastern Plaguelands near the gateway to ruined [[Quel'Thalas]].
  +
  +
High elves in [[Stormwind]] copy the humans' style of long-sleeved tunics, billowy trousers and leather boots. Many High elves avoid wearing red clothing, as to dissociate themselves from [[blood elves]]. They have also set aside a day of mourning for high elves to remember the destruction of [[Dalaran]] with their human friends.
  +
  +
High elves were once strong worshipers of the [[Light|Holy Light]], but this has died down as many have rejected it in favour of [[Magic|arcane magic]]. Although after the invasion of the Scourge and the break off from the blood elves, many have looked to the Light, they do so loosely and are much less devout than [[humans|humanity]]. High elven [[Priest]]s are common. The high elves have made significant contributions to this evolving religion, which originated from [[human]] cults. Even a few high elves have become paladins, without the help of magic like the blood elves.<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 77">''World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game'', pg. 77</ref>
  +
  +
High elves have also developed advanced [[Destroyer]] ships, and used them in the Second War.
  +
  +
===Faith===
  +
High elves who embrace the path of religion take on the mantle of the Holy Light, sharing in the same faith as dwarves and humans. While this philosophy does not penetrate deeply into high elven society, those who do follow the path of the Holy Light are much more approachable than most.<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 37">''World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game'', pg. 37</ref> Many also take on a druid-like philosophy regarding the world and nature. The difference being that the high/blood elves view magic as being an integral part of the universe, as it was created by the Titans and is as natural as nature itself; the Well of Eternity formed naturally on Azeroth and created the elves in the first place.
  +
  +
===Combat===
  +
High elves are proficient in [[bow|archery]], [[priest|divine]] and [[mage|arcane]] [[magic]], as well as [[high Elven Swordsman|swordsmanship]]. They use [[high elven guard tower|guard tower]]s for defense, and their armies take advantage of their natural strengths and typically serve supporting roles when working with other races. The high elves had a special affinity with [[dragonhawk]]s before the [[Scourge]] attacked [[Quel'Thalas]]. The dragonhawks would often serve as flying mounts for the elves, but since the high elves abandoned their homeland, they have had to live without these creatures, who remain in the hands of the [[blood elves]].
  +
  +
===Magical addiction===
  +
[[File:Highelfeyes.jpg|thumb|In ''World of Warcraft'', high elves have glowing blue eyes. Elves seen with green eyes are usually blood elves, who feed upon fel magic.]]
  +
  +
All high elves, regardless of class, status or upbringing, are addicted to [[magic]], and all have some small proficiency in it. Unlike blood elves who succumb to it, high elves actively fight their addiction and are required to meditate at least an hour every day to maintain personal control. The high elves are not proud of this addiction, and take pains to keep it a secret. Being close to [[Moon Well]]s will satiate the addiction, as will the use of certain magical items, though it should be noted Night Elves do their best to keep high elves away from the Well and magical objects that provide the same result are rare.
  +
  +
If a high elf resorts to feeding off something else to sate the addiction, then they cross the line from high elf to blood elf. Contrary to popular belief, magical addiction is not fatal in and of itself (the only elves who have actually died from withdrawal were either elderly, very young, or already ill).<ref name="info429"/>
  +
  +
Some have found a way to block the symptoms of withdrawal by the use of [[Sunwell Ring]]s.
  +
  +
=== Names ===
  +
The past is a burden to the high elves, yet they maintain naming rituals that are millennia old. Many of the names of elven priests and heroes have become the names used for elves in modern times. The high elves share a connection with the sun that is quite prevalent in their choice of family names.<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 37"/>
  +
  +
* Male Names: Mariel, Athaniar, Anandor, Tharama, Viridiel, Malanior.<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 37"/>
  +
* Female Names: Anarial, Freja, Driana, Coria, Alanassori, Melanion, Azshara.<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 37"/>
  +
* Family Names: Boughstrider, Dawnblade, Lightbringer, Morningray, Suntreader.<ref name="World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game 37"/>
  +
  +
===Notable high elves===
  +
{{main|High elf NPCs}}
  +
  +
{| class="darktable zebra"
  +
! Name !! Role !! Condition !! Location !! Allegiance
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIconExt|Dath'Remar|Small}} [[Dath'Remar Sunstrider]]'''
  +
| A former [[Highborne]] [[night elf]], this man led his exiled people to what would later become the [[Eastern Kingdoms]], and founded the kingdom of [[Quel'Thalas]].
  +
| <font color="red">Deceased</font>
  +
| ''Unknown''
  +
| [[High elves]]
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIconExt|Alleria|Small}} [[Alleria Windrunner]]'''
  +
| The eldest of the Windrunner sisters, she was one of the famed heroes during the [[Second War]].
  +
| <font color="yellow">Missing in action</font>
  +
| ''Unknown''
  +
| [[Alliance of Lordaeron]]
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIcon|HighElf|Female|Small}} [[Grand Magus Telestra]]
  +
| High elf that allied with [[Malygos]] to sustain her magical powers.
  +
| <font color="Orange">Killable</font>
  +
| ''[[Coldarra]]''
  +
| [[Malygos]]
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIconExt|Vereesa|Small}} [[Vereesa Windrunner]]'''
  +
| Former ranger of [[Quel'Thalas]] and the youngest of the Windrunner sisters. She is married to [[Rhonin]] and leads the [[The Silver Covenant]].
  +
| <font color="limegreen">Alive</font>
  +
| ''[[Northrend]]''
  +
| [[Alliance of Lordaeron]], [[The Silver Covenant]]
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIcon|HighElf|Male|Small}} [[Anasterian Sunstrider]]'''
  +
| King of Quel'Thalas during the Second War and Third War, he was killed during [[Arthas]]'s attack on the [[Sunwell]].
  +
| <font color="red">Deceased</font>
  +
| ''Unknown''
  +
| Alliance / [[Silvermoon]]
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIcon|HighElf|Male|Small}} [[Captain Darill]]'''
  +
| One of the many elves to cross the sea to [[Kalimdor]], Darill is a captain of the [[Theramore]] soldiers stationed at [[North Point Tower]].
  +
| <font color="limegreen">Alive</font>
  +
| [[North Point Tower]]
  +
| [[Theramore]] / Alliance
  +
|-
  +
||'''[[File:IconSmall HighElf Male.gif]] [[Relfthra]]'''
  +
| A long standing member of the [[Order of Tirisfal]].
  +
| <font color="gray">Unknown</font>
  +
| ''Unknown''
  +
| [[Order of Tirisfal]]
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIcon|HighElf|Female|Small}} [[Jalinde Summerdrake]]
  +
| Leader of Quel'Danil Lodge.
  +
| <font color="gray">Unknown</font>
  +
| ''[[Quel'Danil Lodge]]''
  +
| Alliance
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIcon|HighElf|Male|Small}} [[Ranger Lord Hawkspear]]'''
  +
| Commander of the Quel'Lithien.
  +
| <font color="yellow">{{c-inline}} Wretched</font>
  +
| [[Quel'Lithien Lodge]]
  +
| Alliance
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIcon|HighElf|Male|Small}} [[Thalressar]]'''
  +
| Co-founder of [[Allerian Stronghold]], lieutenant of Alleria and the [[Sons of Lothar]].
  +
| <font color="gray">Unknown</font>
  +
| ''Unknown''
  +
| Alliance Expedition, [[Sons of Lothar]]
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIcon|HighElf|Female|Small}} [[Fiora Longears]]'''
  +
| An ambitious elf that traveled from [[Theramore]] to [[Auberdine]], she discreetly sends adventurers to aid the [[night elves]] in [[Ashenvale]].
  +
| <font color="yellow">{{c-inline}} Presumed deceased</font>
  +
| [[Darkshore]]
  +
| Alliance
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIcon|HighElf|Male|Small}} [[Captain Auric Sunchaser]]'''
  +
| Originally part of the Alliance Expedition, he leads the high elves in the [[Allerian Stronghold]] while Alleria is away.
  +
| <font color="limegreen">Alive</font>
  +
| [[Allerian Stronghold]]
  +
| Alliance
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIcon|HighElf|Male|Small}} [[Ravandwyr]]'''
  +
| An apprentice of [[Archmage Vargoth]], he is one of the last [[Dalaran]] high elves in Outland.
  +
| <font color="limegreen">Alive</font>
  +
| [[Netherstorm]]
  +
| [[Dalaran]]
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIcon|HighElf|Male|Small}} [[Milan of the Elven House of Scribes]]'''
  +
| A scribe who recorded the events of the Second War ā€” from the Alliance point of view ā€” in the ''"Annals of the Great Alliance"''.
  +
| <font color="gray">Unknown</font>
  +
| ''Unknown''
  +
| [[Alliance of Lordaeron]]
  +
|-
  +
||'''{{RaceIconExt|SylvanasHE|Small}}{{RaceIconExt|Sylvanas|Small}} [[Lady Sylvanas Windrunner]]'''
  +
| Former Ranger-General of the elves. Was assassinated and brought back by [[Arthas]] to serve the [[Lich King]]. Later regained her freedom and is now the leader of the Forsaken.
  +
| <font color="purple">Undead</font>
  +
| [[Undercity]]
  +
| [[Forsaken]] (Formerly high elves, [[Scourge]])
  +
|}
  +
  +
===High elven relations===
  +
* See [[High elf relations]]
  +
  +
==Notes==
  +
*High Elves only had a minor appearance in the original [[World of Warcraft]]. A small faction - [[Silvermoon Remnant]], was planed to be implemented but never made it into the Live Servers. It is most likely this faction that inspired the [[Silver Covenant]].
  +
  +
*Although there was a minor movement among the playerbase for high elves to be implemented as a playable race on the Alliance side, the High Elves were essentially given to the [[Horde]] in ''[[The Burning Crusade]]'' - under the new name most of them adopted, the [[Blood Elves]]. Much of what was speculated to have been the High Elven storyline, such as the reclaiming of [[Quel'Thalas]] {{fact}}, was instead the direction the playable Blood Elves were to take. By the end of the expansion, the Blood Elves had redeemed themselves, closing the Blood Elf and High Elf gap further.
  +
  +
== See also ==
  +
* [[High elf NPCs]]
  +
* [[Origin of the races]]
  +
* [[History of the blood elves]]
  +
* [[Azeroth magic#High elves|High elf magic]]
  +
* [[Blood elf]]
  +
  +
== References ==
  +
{{reflist|2}}
  +
  +
{{Azeroth natives}}
  +
  +
[[da:High Elf]]
  +
[[es:Alto Elfo]]
  +
[[pl:High Elf]]
  +
[[Category:Alliance races]]
  +
[[Category:High elves| ]]
  +
[[Category:Racial classes]]

Revision as of 11:48, 1 February 2011

Template:Racebox

The high elves, or quel'dorei ("children of noble birth" in Darnassian and "high elves" in Thalassian), are a race descended from the Highborne night elves who left Kalimdor and settled in the Eastern Kingdoms, founding Quel'Thalas.

The high elves were once a significant force on the continent, but in recent times their numbers have been dramatically reduced: 90% of their race was slaughtered in the Third War.[1] Following this, another 90% of the survivors changed their name to "blood elves" in remembrance of their fallen brethren, and no longer consider themselves high elven.[2] Around 25,000 true high elves remain, most of whom cling to the Alliance trying to restore the glory of their once great people.

Description

The ancient origin of the high elves is a legacy of tragedy and conflict, a series of events that has profoundly affected the development of the quel'dorei. The high elves are a stark contrast to their nocturnal cousins, the night elves (or kaldorei). Embracing the light of the sun[3] and forsaking the night, the high elves are the descendants of the very elves who served Queen Azshara in the time of the Well of Eternity. The kaldorei regard the high elven penchant for using arcane magic as careless, akin to a foolish child playing with fire. The schism that separates the Highborne elves and the night elves is rather ancient, one so ancient that no amount of diplomacy or offerings of peace can soothe the scars of history. The high elves, however, have had generations separating them from the night elves, and no longer care for the past. Problems between the two races are usually clashes of personality, as neither tries overly hard to interact. The arrogance of the high elves led to the War of the Ancients and ultimately to the downfall of the golden age of elven civilization. Through the reckless use of arcane magic, the high elves allowed darkness to seep into the world and corrupt Azeroth. They use the genetic phenomenon that modern elves face as testament to their views.

Arcane magic is a powerful drug to the high elves, and it can be a lure to a dark and perilous path. Yet too many wield it as if they were doing no harm, and few but the oldest and most sage can recall the true reasons why the use of such magic is a dangerous and potentially damning practice. Regardless of the risks, some high elves press onwards to revel in the euphoria and power that the use of magic brings them. The high elves are a tragic example of a race in decline. Their centuries of arcane practice have led them into an ever-tightening downward spiral. Now there are few true Quelā€™dorei left. Most have gone with Kael'thas Sunstrider to become the blood elves, and in doing so have allied with the sworn enemies of elvenkind, the naga. Now the scant remaining Quelā€™dorei are typically those who have embraced the Light and seen past the powers of arcane magic and darkness. Distrusted by almost all of the races, the remaining high elves are pariahs in an age when there is little left for them but a life of mistrust and woe.[4]

History

Exile of the Highborne

Dath'Remar

Dath'Remar Sunstrider, first of the high elves.

When the night elves adopted druidism, they outlawed the practice of arcane magic. The use of its dangerous powers was punishable by death. However, many Highborne loyalists of Queen Azshara survived the Sundering and grew restless. They suffered from magical withdrawal, and 7,300 years before the invasion of the Horde through the Dark Portal, they spoke against Malfurion Stormrage and the Druids.

Dath'Remar Sunstrider, the leader of this movement, declared the druids cowards for refusing to wield the arcane. Malfurion and the druids warned the Highborne that any use of magic would be punishable by death. Yet, in an attempt to protest the druidā€™s law, Dath'Remar and his followers unleashed a terrible magical storm upon Ashenvale.

The druids could not bring themselves to put so many of their kin to death, so they decided to exile the reckless Highborne from their lands. Sunstrider and his followers boarded a number of specially crafted ships and set sail upon the seas. By now the Highborne were glad to be rid of their conservative cousins and free to practice the arcane with impunity.

None knew what lay beyond the Maelstrom, but they eventually found the Eastern Kingdoms and formed their own magical realm. They abandoned the concepts of Elune and nocturnal activity, embracing the sun instead. They would soon become known as the high elves.

Foundation of Quelā€™Thalas

Sunstrider led the high elven fleets across the world for many long years. Their goal was to find places of considerable ley power for them to build their new homeland. After landing on the Lordaeron continent, they moved inland and formed a settlement in the Tirisfal Glades. After a few years, however, many were driven insane. The belief at the time was that something evil slept beneath the Glades, so the high elves abandoned the region and moved northwards.

Around this time, they had become completely severed from the life-giving energy of the Well of Eternity. This meant that they were vulnerable to the elements and had not received immortality from Nozdormu and the World Tree. They had shrunk in height and their skin had become a peach hue similar to most dwarves and humans. The high elves soon discovered primitive humans, but associated little with them. The forest trolls of Zul'Aman, under the Amani Empire, posed the greater threat to their society. The elves soon grew to hate the forest trolls and they fought each other whenever they met.

After many more years, the high elves discovered a land in the northern forests which suited them, and founded the kingdom of Quel'Thalas. Unfortunately, they would learn that Quelā€™Thalas was founded on a sacred and ancient troll city. The trolls began to attack the elven settlements en masse in retaliation. Although the Amani outnumbered them ten to one, the elves utilized magic to its fullest effect and defeated the trolls.

Some elves, wary of the kaldorei's warnings, created a protective barrier around Quelā€™Thalas which allowed them to continue their magic without attracting the Burning Legionā€™s attention. To do this, they employed a series of monolithic Runestones.

High Elf Establishment2

Quel'Thalas was guarded by elfgates.

Soon, Quelā€™Thalas became a shining monument to high elven prowess. It was crafted in the same style as the halls of Kalimdor[5], with the addition of integrated magic and a brighter colour scheme. Although they did not worship it, a great respect was maintained for nature. The high elves were careful to interweave their cities and architecture with their natural surroundings, creating a truly beautiful and tranquil land.[5]

To sate their hunger for great magical power, the high elves created the Sunwell. It became the source of their power as the Well of Eternity had been in Kalimdor, although the Sunwell was much weaker, and the elves were forewarned of the dangers. As the high elves became more powerful, they cast an enchantment on the forests that bathed Quel'Thalas in eternal springtime, in defiance of the kingdom's location on the extreme north of the continent. From that point on, all high elves had access to the Sunwell's powers from anywhere on Azeroth. Over time, the high elves came to regard the Sunwell's waters as holy. Magic became part of their genes centuries before, but the Sunwell's unique energies became part of them acutely.[2]

New world patterns and the Thalassian kingdom

For nearly four thousand years, the high elves remained relatively at peace. But while the elves established their nation, the Amani plotted their next assault. 2,800 years before the First War, they unleashed it upon the high elves. The Troll Wars ignited. Suffering loss after loss, the high elves turned to the humans of Arathor for support. The two formed a military alliance in exchange for the instruction of 100 humans in arcane magic. Together, they crushed the Amani; an empire that had endured for more than twenty thousand years. Humans and high elves have cultivated this alliance ever since.

The high elves also established relations with the Ironforge Dwarves to the far south, when the human nations of Gilneas and Alterac encountered them more than a thousand years later. The two races had no special bond and tended to distrust one another. When allied, it was through their common ties to the humans.

Yet 230 years before the First War, the dwarven race split into three factions (See War of the Three Hammers). The Wildhammers desired to open up trade with the high elves, considered taboo at the time, and would serve as one of the catalysts for their war.[6] When it ended, the clan became close allies to the high elves. The two races were united through a mutual appreciation for nature and other cultural similarities.[7] They would soon become each otherā€™s closest friends within the Alliance.

War and the fall of Quel'Thalas

Peace in Quelā€™Thalas continued for almost three thousand years until the Second War. The orcish Horde came through a portal from the world of Draenor at the advent of the First War, and defeated the Kingdom of Stormwind. They then brought ogres into Azeroth, and allied with the goblins and forest trolls, turning their sights on the north. The high elves only helped out on a small level in the First War. After the humans were defeated and fled north through Khaz Modan, the dwarves sent emissaries to meet with the high elves and humans to discuss the threat of the Horde.[8]

When the humans proposed an Alliance of their seven nations, the Wildhammer and Ironforge dwarves, the gnomes, and the high elves, the elves were honour-bound to join it due to their ancestral connection with Arathi, of whom Anduin Lothar was the last pure-blooded scion. Under Anasterian Sunstrider, they were the least enthusiastic of the alliance and put forth only a token army.

However, the orcs' northern campaign, in which the trolls were meant to take back their ancestral homes from the high elves, managed to burn down the borderlands of Quelā€™Thalas, slaughtering many high elves in the process, and corrupting the Runestone at Caer Darrow. This enraged Silvermoon, which promptly pledged its full support to the war. The Horde eventually splintered under internal political pressure, and the Alliance charged southwards to crush it. The Second War was won.

In the aftermath, some high elves blamed the humans' poor leadership for the burning of their forests. King Terenas of Lordaeron reminded them that nothing of Quel'Thalas would have remained if not for the hundreds of humans that gave their lives to defend it, but nevertheless, the high elves largely abandoned the Alliance. Alleria Windrunner, sister to Sylvanas, and a cadre of her elven rangers remained loyal to Alliance High Command, but they were eventually lost on the other side of the Dark Portal. Her sister Vereesa also advocated continued support to the Alliance after the Grim Batol incident, but Anasterian was not swayed.

It should be noted that although the high elves retreated from the Alliance, a large number of them remained in Dalaran and were loyal to the Alliance through the Kirin Tor.

Sylvanashelf

Sylvanas Windrunner battling the Scourge as they march for Silvermoon

Years later, the Scourge came forth. Its commander, Arthas Menethil, obliterated the leading nation of Lordaeron and then turned their sights on Quelā€™Thalas. Their goal was to revive a human man named Kel'Thuzad, who could summon the demon-lord Archimonde into Azeroth. To do this, they required a source of considerable ley magic, and chose the Sunwell.

The high elves were still recovering from their grievous injuries at the hands of the Horde, but faced the Scourge in battle regardless. This time, there would be no human army to rescue them. The high elven army, lead by the Ranger General Sylvanas Windrunner, made counter attacks every time the scourge advanced. Despite their tactics and magic the elves were pushed back from the outer, to inner elf gates. Finally Arthas and his army, as well as new banshees, including Sylvanas, advanced on Silvermoon and crushed the defenders. Anasterian himself was killed by the Scourge.

The Sunwell was used to resurrect Kel'Thuzad, and fouled with evil in the process. The Scourge then set about to commit genocide on a massive scale. Only about ten percent of the entire race survived. Some of them were lucky enough to be away from their home at the time (many were housed at Dalaran and others had already fled with Jaina), but the majority of them survived only by defending themselves or hiding.

Soon, Dalaran, with the second greatest concentration of high elves, was destroyed as well. Dalaran's defeat was swift and complete, and most of the high elves there died under Archimonde's attacks. Other elves died afterward from bandits that came to sift through the wreckage.

Splintering

The remaining elves throughout the continent were scattered, and clung to the Alliance for protection, until Kael'thas Sunstrider, son of the deceased Anasterian, began to organize them by reclaiming every last elf on the Eastern Continents. Under his leadership, they took the name blood elves, to remember the death of their bethren. The blood elves account for the vast majority of the high elves' previous population.

Per Kael'thas instructions, some blood elves started slowly rebuilding Silvermoon. A significant group, led by Kael'thas himself, started traveling throughout the land in order to find more surviving elves, and to find a source of magic to replace the Sunwell. The elves were suffering from great withdrawals after being cut off the Sunwell because of its destruction. Due to the unreasonable orders of the Alliance leader Garithos, Kael's people were forced to ally themselves with the Naga and fled to Outland. They soon joined Illidan there, and he in turn taught them how to sate their hunger for magic by feeding on alternative sources (having himself suffered the same withdrawal for thousands of years). The blood elves began to hunt and use Demons in order to steal their powers, merely using them as tools.

The blood elves who did not travel with Kael'thas to Outland allied themselves with the Horde through their connections to the Banshee Queen Sylvanas Windrunner, now leader of the Forsaken. Although the blood elves harbor very little trust for the Horde, they also have come to hate much of the Alliance ā€” humans (and to a lesser extent dwarves) in particular. Their relationship with their ancestor race the night elves is not flourishing, but they are not dire enemies either, as distance between their locations has meant less contact between each other and fewer situations to arise that would cause fighting.

Some of the blood elves led to Outland by Kael'thas, including Kael himself, eventually broke away from those left in Silvermoon. The Silvermoon elves, who considered themselves a part of the Horde, began to oppose Kael'thas as disturbing new facts came to light. Illidan had gone mad, and Kael'thas had abandoned him and sworn allegiance to the demons of the Burning Legion. In addition to the separation this caused between Kael'thas's group and the Horde, a large army of elves who had followed Kael'thas to Outland defected and joined the Sha'tar. This faction, the Scryers, is not aligned with the Horde nor the Alliance.

Those few elves of the Alliance who have remained as high elves have become enemies to their once brothers-in-arms. They are dispersed throughout many lands and Alliance outposts.

Current status

Epicranger

Epic elven ranger.

High elves are currently found primarily scattered throughout human societies, thereby being forced to rely on the hospitality of the younger race. This dependency has resulted in some high elves vigorously trying to find a new homeland, with possibly a new source of magic. The status of their blood elven counterpart has resulted in them being shunned by most of the Alliance, particularly the night elves.

Human cities hold the highest population density of high elves. Dalaran currently has the highest concentration. On the continent of Northrend, a faction of high elves are led by Vereesa Windrunner against the blood elves under the name of The Silver Covenant. Despite the open hostility, many others have decided to stay with the Kirin Tor as neutral.

The high elves even maintain a presence in Lordaeron. Ranger Lord Hawkspear and Aurora Skycaller once maintained a vigil over the Eastern Plaguelands from the Quel'Lithien Lodge, sheltering their people within the intact elven lodge there. A small unit of high elven rangers under the command of Ranger Captain Fellari Swiftarrow fought together with the zealous Scarlet Crusade against the undead for a while, though they were lost in battle. A large statue in honor of the capable elven leader was erected in the Scarlet Monastery.

Some bands of high elven survivors fled south to the Hinterlands and to the forests of Zul'Aman. Those who stay one step ahead of the trolls survive; those who do not are dead (and probably eaten by the cannibalistic trolls). Scourge patrols, hunting the elven refugees, also stalk through the land.[9] Deep within the Hinterlands, the high elves of the Quel'Danil Lodge have their sights set on forming diplomatic alliances with other members of the Alliance.

Some high elves had already left with Jaina Proudmoore before the destruction of Quel'Thalas, to form the city-state of Theramore in Kalimdor. These elves had mostly severed ties with Quel'Thalas prior to its fall, and keep the name of high elf to this day. They take two out of the seven seats on the ruling council that advises Lady Jaina and play a key role in the governing of the city-state. Occasionally, ships come from Lordaeron bringing more of their people to the diverse city.

Bc icon This section concerns content related to The Burning Crusade.

The remnants of the Alliance Expedition's high elven ranger cadre are currently stationed at the sizable Allerian Stronghold in Outland.

Wrath-Logo-Small This section concerns content related to Wrath of the Lich King.

After the defeat of Kil'Jaeden the blood elves took the Sunwell back with the help of the Shattered Sun Offensive, and the high elves were allowed to share the Sunwell. Captain Auric Sunchaser from the Alliance Expedition rangers represents the high elves at the well itself. The blood elves and high elves are still openly hostile to each other but this sharing of the Sunwell could pave the way for some form of fragile peace, thus far there has been no such progress.

Vereesa Windrunner attended the wedding of Tyrande Whisperwind and Malfurion Stormrage wih her husband and half-elf sons suggesting a thaw in night elf-high elf relations.[10]

Cataclysm This section concerns content related to Cataclysm.

Since the fall of the Lich King, the high elves' bane is no more, and seem to be taking a lesser role in world affairs. The Wintergrasp battlemasters no longer have a presence in the Alliance cities, having likely returned to Dalaran. With the removal of the portals in the Silver Enclave, class trainers, mostly high elven, have taken their place.

The elves at Quel'Lithien Lodge have taken a turn for the worse, after Ranger Lord Hawkspear discovered a source of seductive energy. However, the Quel'Danil Lodge elves have fared considerably better, having solidified relations with the draenei and the Wildhammer dwarves.

Population

High elves

Two high elves: Joy Ar'nareth and Rayan Dawnrisen

Sources[11] state that the high elven population just a few years prior was approximately 24,810 and the half-elven population was approximately 9,550, not including Theramore, Dalaran, and several less significant cities. Stormwind (pop. 200,000)[12][13] alone has the most, with a total of 20,000 high elves, and 8,000 half elves.

When Kael'Thas founded the blood elves, approximately 90%[2] of the surviving high elven population left and joined his cause.

Appearance

Oldhighelfs

High elves in old age

High elves stand slightly taller than humans do. A high elf is usually a little over 6 feet in height and weighs between 100 to 175 pounds, depending on gender. The elves are slim, with sharp symmetrical features, often an exaggeration of perfect beauty. The high elves are uniformly fair in complexion, with white to flaxen colored hair. Their eyes are incredibly intense in color, seeming to glow with an inner light. While many high elves have blue or green eyes (ex. Alleria),[14] violet and red are not unheard of.[4] The structure of high elven eyes (based on artwork) shows that they are generally like humans with a pupil and iris surrounded by "white", but tend to be able to see much farther than humans are capable. The life span of high elves is several hundred years. They reach adulthood at 110 years, a "venerable" age at roughly 350 years, and most dying of old age at approximately 263 years. A few may reach "venerable" age at roughly 350 years with maximum lifespan between 354 and 390 years,[15] and even fewer may live as long as two thousand years.[16][17] Most high elves (especially those of the Alliance) do not wear red or black for fear of being mistaken as blood elves.[18] They have shorter ears and much smaller, lighter bodies than night elves. As well, their ears usually point upwards whereas those of the night elves do not.

High elves have white, red, orange brown, black, and blonde colored hair and fair skin, most have brilliantly intense sapphire coloured eyes that glow (at least in World of Warcraft). In World of Warcraft high elves have blue, sapphire glowing eyes (but have more variation according to lore, including green eyes[4][14]). The blood elves typically have only green, emerald glowing eyes to show their magic addiction and their newly acquired addiction to fel magic.

Blood elves and high elves are for the most part the same race in terms of underlying physical biology.[17] However, blood elves have glowing green eyes and their hair and skin are much paler or otherwise unnaturally coloured,[19] due to the absorption of fel energies during the period the Sunwell was lost. For the most part however, they are considered separate due to cultural differences more so than because of physical ones.[20]

WoW Icon update This section concerns content related to the original World of Warcraft.
File:OldVyrin Swiftwind.jpg

An in-game high elf before The Burning Crusade was released.

In World of Warcraft, the high elves closely resemble blood elves appearance-wise (they in fact share the same model, although High Elves have blue eyes as opposed to the green eyes of Blood Elves), but their voices are more mild-mannered like those of night elves (in the game, they use the same voices as Night Elves, although unsuitable lines, such as "Elune'adore", "Ishnu'alah" or "Goddess watch over you", are not used). Taela Everstride at Allerian Stronghold even says, somewhat bemusedly, "No, don't feel bad. I get that a lot... I'm a high elf, not a blood elf. Don't worry, I won't suck the magic out of you." However, other than greeting voices, high elves and blood elves do appear to share similar voice emotes in-game, particularly during combat. Before World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade, in game high elves used modified night elf models.

Culture

Highelf buildings

High elven buildings often use a blue or green color scheme, possibly to differentiate them from the red-hued architecture of Quel'Thalas:- both the buildings destroyed in the Third War by Arthas and the identical new blood elf constructions.

The destruction of the Sunwell has forced the high elves into decline, causing them to doubt the future of their once-proud race and drawing animosity toward them from other races who feel that the high elves have betrayed the Alliance. Most of the high elves have placed themselves under a self-imposed exile, ashamed of the damage that they have wrought upon the world of Lordaeron with their abuse of arcane magic.

While humans still accept the high elves because of the aid that both races provided each other during the most recent attacks of the Burning Legion, reinforcing the same bond that they had in both the Troll Wars and the Second War, many of the other races will only deal with the high elves if absolutely necessary. This is especially true after the acts of Kaelā€™thas Sunstrider. The night elves in particular do not care for the company of high elves (as they have personal memories of the war that spawned them) and in some cases can be openly hostile toward their sun-blessed brethren. The passing of time may heal these wounds, but the use of arcane magic will always draw a rift between these two breeds of elf.[21]

It would not quite be correct to say that the high elves rejoined the Alliance. To many high elves, they never left. Nevertheless, they are often aloof and distant from their allies. They keep to themselves and enjoy wandering forests alone or in small groups. They also maintain the Quel'Danil Lodge, an outpost in the Hinterlands which pursues their diplomatic interests and Quel'Lithien in the Eastern Plaguelands near the gateway to ruined Quel'Thalas.

High elves in Stormwind copy the humans' style of long-sleeved tunics, billowy trousers and leather boots. Many High elves avoid wearing red clothing, as to dissociate themselves from blood elves. They have also set aside a day of mourning for high elves to remember the destruction of Dalaran with their human friends.

High elves were once strong worshipers of the Holy Light, but this has died down as many have rejected it in favour of arcane magic. Although after the invasion of the Scourge and the break off from the blood elves, many have looked to the Light, they do so loosely and are much less devout than humanity. High elven Priests are common. The high elves have made significant contributions to this evolving religion, which originated from human cults. Even a few high elves have become paladins, without the help of magic like the blood elves.[22]

High elves have also developed advanced Destroyer ships, and used them in the Second War.

Faith

High elves who embrace the path of religion take on the mantle of the Holy Light, sharing in the same faith as dwarves and humans. While this philosophy does not penetrate deeply into high elven society, those who do follow the path of the Holy Light are much more approachable than most.[23] Many also take on a druid-like philosophy regarding the world and nature. The difference being that the high/blood elves view magic as being an integral part of the universe, as it was created by the Titans and is as natural as nature itself; the Well of Eternity formed naturally on Azeroth and created the elves in the first place.

Combat

High elves are proficient in archery, divine and arcane magic, as well as swordsmanship. They use guard towers for defense, and their armies take advantage of their natural strengths and typically serve supporting roles when working with other races. The high elves had a special affinity with dragonhawks before the Scourge attacked Quel'Thalas. The dragonhawks would often serve as flying mounts for the elves, but since the high elves abandoned their homeland, they have had to live without these creatures, who remain in the hands of the blood elves.

Magical addiction

Highelfeyes

In World of Warcraft, high elves have glowing blue eyes. Elves seen with green eyes are usually blood elves, who feed upon fel magic.

All high elves, regardless of class, status or upbringing, are addicted to magic, and all have some small proficiency in it. Unlike blood elves who succumb to it, high elves actively fight their addiction and are required to meditate at least an hour every day to maintain personal control. The high elves are not proud of this addiction, and take pains to keep it a secret. Being close to Moon Wells will satiate the addiction, as will the use of certain magical items, though it should be noted Night Elves do their best to keep high elves away from the Well and magical objects that provide the same result are rare.

If a high elf resorts to feeding off something else to sate the addiction, then they cross the line from high elf to blood elf. Contrary to popular belief, magical addiction is not fatal in and of itself (the only elves who have actually died from withdrawal were either elderly, very young, or already ill).[2]

Some have found a way to block the symptoms of withdrawal by the use of Sunwell Rings.

Names

The past is a burden to the high elves, yet they maintain naming rituals that are millennia old. Many of the names of elven priests and heroes have become the names used for elves in modern times. The high elves share a connection with the sun that is quite prevalent in their choice of family names.[23]

  • Male Names: Mariel, Athaniar, Anandor, Tharama, Viridiel, Malanior.[23]
  • Female Names: Anarial, Freja, Driana, Coria, Alanassori, Melanion, Azshara.[23]
  • Family Names: Boughstrider, Dawnblade, Lightbringer, Morningray, Suntreader.[23]

Notable high elves

Main article: High elf NPCs
Name Role Condition Location Allegiance
File:IconSmall Dath'Remar Small.gif Dath'Remar Sunstrider A former Highborne night elf, this man led his exiled people to what would later become the Eastern Kingdoms, and founded the kingdom of Quel'Thalas. Deceased Unknown High elves
File:IconSmall Alleria Small.gif Alleria Windrunner The eldest of the Windrunner sisters, she was one of the famed heroes during the Second War. Missing in action Unknown Alliance of Lordaeron
IconSmall HighElf Female Grand Magus Telestra High elf that allied with Malygos to sustain her magical powers. Killable Coldarra Malygos
File:IconSmall Vereesa Small.gif Vereesa Windrunner Former ranger of Quel'Thalas and the youngest of the Windrunner sisters. She is married to Rhonin and leads the The Silver Covenant. Alive Northrend Alliance of Lordaeron, The Silver Covenant
IconSmall HighElf Male Anasterian Sunstrider King of Quel'Thalas during the Second War and Third War, he was killed during Arthas's attack on the Sunwell. Deceased Unknown Alliance / Silvermoon
IconSmall HighElf Male Captain Darill One of the many elves to cross the sea to Kalimdor, Darill is a captain of the Theramore soldiers stationed at North Point Tower. Alive North Point Tower Theramore / Alliance
IconSmall HighElf Male Relfthra A long standing member of the Order of Tirisfal. Unknown Unknown Order of Tirisfal
IconSmall HighElf Female Jalinde Summerdrake Leader of Quel'Danil Lodge. Unknown Quel'Danil Lodge Alliance
IconSmall HighElf Male Ranger Lord Hawkspear Commander of the Quel'Lithien. Icon Cataclysm 18x18 Wretched Quel'Lithien Lodge Alliance
IconSmall HighElf Male Thalressar Co-founder of Allerian Stronghold, lieutenant of Alleria and the Sons of Lothar. Unknown Unknown Alliance Expedition, Sons of Lothar
IconSmall HighElf Female Fiora Longears An ambitious elf that traveled from Theramore to Auberdine, she discreetly sends adventurers to aid the night elves in Ashenvale. Icon Cataclysm 18x18 Presumed deceased Darkshore Alliance
IconSmall HighElf Male Captain Auric Sunchaser Originally part of the Alliance Expedition, he leads the high elves in the Allerian Stronghold while Alleria is away. Alive Allerian Stronghold Alliance
IconSmall HighElf Male Ravandwyr An apprentice of Archmage Vargoth, he is one of the last Dalaran high elves in Outland. Alive Netherstorm Dalaran
IconSmall HighElf Male Milan of the Elven House of Scribes A scribe who recorded the events of the Second War ā€” from the Alliance point of view ā€” in the "Annals of the Great Alliance". Unknown Unknown Alliance of Lordaeron
File:IconSmall SylvanasHE Small.gifFile:IconSmall Sylvanas Small.gif Lady Sylvanas Windrunner Former Ranger-General of the elves. Was assassinated and brought back by Arthas to serve the Lich King. Later regained her freedom and is now the leader of the Forsaken. Undead Undercity Forsaken (Formerly high elves, Scourge)

High elven relations

  • See High elf relations

Notes

  • Although there was a minor movement among the playerbase for high elves to be implemented as a playable race on the Alliance side, the High Elves were essentially given to the Horde in The Burning Crusade - under the new name most of them adopted, the Blood Elves. Much of what was speculated to have been the High Elven storyline, such as the reclaiming of Quel'Thalas [citation needed] , was instead the direction the playable Blood Elves were to take. By the end of the expansion, the Blood Elves had redeemed themselves, closing the Blood Elf and High Elf gap further.

See also

References

 
  1. ^ Lands of Conflict, pg. 113
  2. ^ a b c d High Elves. The Warcraft Encyclopedia, Encyclopedia > Mortal Races > High Elves and Blood Elves. Retrieved on 2010-11-30.
  3. ^ "Forever after, they would embrace the sun and be known only as the high elves. " - Exile of the High Elves. History of Warcraft, Chapter 1. Retrieved on 2010-11-30.
  4. ^ a b c World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game, pg. 36
  5. ^ a b The Founding of Quel'Thalas. History of Warcraft, Chapter 2. Retrieved on 2010-11-30.
  6. ^ Lands of Conflict, pg. 67
  7. ^ Lands of Conflict, pg. 99
  8. ^ Alliance Player's Guide, pg. 129
  9. ^ Lands of Conflict, pg. 98-99, 115
  10. ^ Stormrage, p. 396
  11. ^ World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game, pg. 9
  12. ^ World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game, pg. 13
  13. ^ Lands of Conflict, pg. 52
  14. ^ a b Tides of Darkness, pg. 117
  15. ^ World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game, pg. 36, 174
  16. ^ Warcraft The Roleplaying Game, pg. 42
  17. ^ a b High Elves and Blood Elves. The Warcraft Encyclopedia, Encyclopedia > Mortal Races. Retrieved on 2010-11-30.
  18. ^ Alliance & Horde Compendium, pg. 68.
  19. ^ Monster Guide p.64
  20. ^ Alliance Player's Guide, pg. 12,123-131
  21. ^ World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game, pg. 36-37
  22. ^ World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game, pg. 77
  23. ^ a b c d e World of Warcraft The Roleplaying Game, pg. 37

da:High Elf