High Elf Backgrounds

High Elves

Aloof and often obsessed with magic. The High Elf cities fell centuries ago when the Dark Elves betrayed them. They have lived among the Hill Dwarves since. They provide some troops to defend settlements and scout surroundings but mostly they live in their towers studying magic and brooding.

Illustration by Russ Nicholson

1d6	Ideal
1	Change. We must help bring about the changes the gods are constantly working in the world.
2	Power. I hope to one day rise to the top and be respected by all.
3	Truth. I would seek the truth even if it might be damaging to my cause.
4	Neutral. I generally think a live and let live attitude is best, except when it comes to the horde. They've already past that point.
5	Looking good. I refuse to be seen without the latest fashions and styles. It doesn't take much to look good and everyone should do their best.
6	Deep thoughts. The world is a mess and one must spend time in moody contemplation of the darkness.

1d6	Bond
1	Truth be told loyalty to other races is pointless, their lives are so fragile and short.
2	I would do anything for the Dwarves, they requested help and my people were slow to believe or comply and will do my best to pay that debt.
3	Knowledge is the only thing, extensive knowledge. I'd risk anything to gain more and that includes whatever foul things the Horde and their Dark Elf Masters might know.
4	I am dedicated to the destruction of House Dark Elf, those evil creatures are unworthy to be considered Elves and they've brought death and destruction to a hundred worlds. They must be ended, painfully if possible.
5	I am loyal to our Clan leader. She is brilliant and has ensured the safety of our clan for decades.
6	The Elf Queen is my Master and I will do anything she commands.

1d6	Flaw
1	I come across as a bit of an aloof snob. I'm not a snob, but others do get that impression.
2	When there is no danger I find it hard to pull my nose out of books.
3	I have a strange relationship with money. Don't care for it but understand it is required to buy stuff.
4	I have zero interest in sex, never have.
5	Obsessed with fashion and will spend like an aristocrat to keep up with the latest.
6	I tend to be very emotional for an Elf, dark and depressed most of the time, although I try not to show that side to strangers.

Acolyte, Druid  (From Ba5ic)

You grew up in an Order of the Pantheon of the Old Faith studying the ways of the nature spirits.
Proficiencies: Animals, Religion
Equipment: A prayer rope, a winter blanket, an herbalism kit, a set of common robes that mark your Order, and 5 gp
Perks: When in the robes of your order you can expect reasonable assistance from Elves (and even Halflings). This assistance includes buying you food/drink or lodging, helping get you out of trouble with the law, or backing you up in the case of a bully.

Apprentice, Wizard  (From Ba5ic)
You have spent your life slaving away in a Wizarding Chantry cleaning and studying, hoping to become a Wizard.
Proficiencies: Artisan (usually alchemy), one language
Equipment: A bottle of ink, a quill, 10 sheets of parchment, a set of common clothes, and a pouch containing 10 gp
Perks: You are an Apprentice member of one of the Wizarding Schools and can rely on certain benefits. You have access to your chantry and the research capacities that they provide as well as being a place to potential patrons, allies and hirelings. The Wizarding School also has political clout, so you will be protected from unjust use of the law and has access to political figures.

Guardsman (From Ba5ic)
You spent your early life guarding the walls of the Dwarven Vault you now call home.
Proficiencies: Athletics, Intimidation
Equipment: An insignia of rank, a set of common clothes, and a pouch containing 10 gp
Perks: Your rank will be recognized by anyone in the Vault, who will recognize your authority and defer to it if of a lower rank. You can invoke their rank to requisition simple equipment or horses for temporary use.

Noble (Fom Ba5ic)
You are from one of the Great Elven Wizarding Families. Your family birthright is magic itself. The very blood that flows through you is steeped in magic. Whether or not you can use this magic depends upon your class.
Proficiencies: Arcana, History
Equipment: A set of fine clothes, and a pouch containing 15 gp
Perks: As a member of a Great Elven Wizarding Family people are inclined to fear you.

* Ba5ic game at DriveThru. ba5ic OGL License. The only game that really did something with Backgrounds so credit where credit is due.