Altmer
"Have you heard of the High Elves?"
The Altmer, also known as High Elves or the self-proclaimed "Cultured People," are a tall and golden-skinned race from Summerset Isle.
Regarded as proud and snobbish, they consider themselves the most civilized culture in Tamriel, shaping the common language and influencing the Empire's arts, crafts, laws, and sciences.
Gifted in the arcane arts, the Altmer have long lifespans with high resistance to diseases and paralysis but are vulnerable to magicka and elemental attacks—their intelligence and devotion to study often lead them to become influential magic users.
To effectively roleplay as an Altmer (High Elf) in the Elder Scrolls universe, embody their superior intellect, ancient lineage, and unwavering pride.
Portray a refined and aristocratic demeanor, emphasizing their magical aptitude and scholarly pursuits. Showcase their affinity for the arcane arts, engaging in scholarly activities, and seeking to unravel the mysteries of magic.
Embrace their ancestral connection to the Aldmeri Dominion and their deep-seated belief in their inherent superiority. Incorporate their distinct physical traits such as tall stature, fair skin, and golden or silver hair, symbolizing their elegance and grace.
Engage in quests and political intrigues that highlight their ambitions, striving to further the goals of the Altmeri Dominion and assert their dominance in Tamriel.
HEIGHT LIMIT: 183-208 (Female), 185-210 (Male)
LANGUAGES: Tamrielic, Altmeris
Racial Traits
Ruination
Altmer gain a natural +2 to their destruction spells.
Altmer gain a natural +2 to their Mental Aptitude and a 5% regeneration to their magicka
Immunity
Altmer have a natural immunity to disease.
Description
Altmer, or High Elves, are a race of elves in the Elder Scrolls universe known for their physical beauty, intelligence, and long lifespans. Here is a detailed description of their physical traits and their cultural values regarding bloodlines and beauty:
Altmer have a tall and slender physique; their heights typically range from around 5'8" to 6'4" (173-193 cm) for males and 5'6" to 6'2" (167-188 cm) for females. Standing above most other races in Tamriel. Their skin has a pale, golden-toned complexion that ranges from a fair ivory to a deep bronze. Their almond-shaped eyes come in shades of gold, amber, and blue, often exhibiting a luminous quality. Altmer hair is long and lustrous, ranging from blonde to silver or white, and they usually style it in elaborate braids adorned with jewelry or intricate headpieces.
The Altmer place great importance on bloodlines and heritage. They take pride in their ancient lineage and noble ancestry, meticulously keeping genealogical records that trace their family history for generations. They believe that maintaining pure Elven blood is crucial, considering it reflects their worth and superiority.
Altmer consider physical beauty as a manifestation of inner perfection. They strive for physical flawlessness and dedicate significant effort to their appearance. Grooming, personal hygiene, and fashion are of great importance to them. They pay attention to details, including their posture, gestures, and overall presentation. Altmer society values elegance, refinement, and sophistication in all aspects of life.
Altmer clothing reflects their refined taste and status. They prefer flowing, elaborate robes of luxurious silk or velvet fabrics. Intricate embroidery, delicate patterns, and rich colors characterize their fashion. Altmer also adorn themselves with jewelry made from precious metals and gemstones, showcasing their love for intricate designs and filigree work.
Altmer have an extended lifespan compared to other races in Tamriel. They can live for several centuries, with some individuals reaching ages over 300 years. Their longevity reinforces their belief in superiority and their perception of being more refined and enlightened than other races.
Altmer possess striking physical features, including their tall stature, radiant, golden-toned skin, and luminous eyes. They highly value their bloodlines and maintain records of their lineage. Altmer prioritize physical perfection and invest in their appearance, evident in their fashion choices and grooming habits. Their beauty and elegance are seen as reflections of their inner refinement and superiority.
L O R E
History
Altmer are thought to be the most direct, unaltered descendants of the original Aldmer elves, and the transition from one to the other is unclear. The Altmer seemed to have changed by staying the same. When the Aldmer left their home island of Aldmeris, most if not all, settled first in the Summerset Isle. The Maormer believe the Altmer to be a mongrel race and that the Sea Elves are directly descended from the "purest strain" of Aldmeri ancestors. Much of their history is lost or hidden. Still, it is known that many unique ruins and structures, notably the Ceporah Tower, predate the Aldmeri's arrival by at least several hundred years. In ancient times, they likely warred with the Sload of Thras and other strange, unknown creatures to control Summerset. At some point, they came together and formed the Crystal Tower as a monument to the spirit of their race. It was the pinnacle of magical learning until the construction of the Arcane University.
Social clashes among the Aldmer would lead to a series of emigrations from Summerset Isle to regions all over Tamriel, notably under the prophet Veloth, which would lead to the great diversification of Elven races, such as the Chimer, Bosmer, Orsimer, and Ayleids. Many different, often corroborating legends claim that each race's changes resulted from differences in their worship of deities. The Maormer, or Sea Elves of Pyandonea, were once counted among these emigrant groups from Summerset. Still, tapestries in the Crystal Tower suggest that their divergence from the Aldmer occurred before the Elves had quit Aldmeris. This account had been accepted by both Altmer and Maormer sources by the middle of the Second Era.
SOCIETY
A complex social structure and a strong emphasis on cultural and intellectual pursuits characterize Altmer society. Within their ranks, the Altmer exhibit hierarchical interactions based on status, lineage, and magical aptitude. At the top of the social ladder are the aristocratic families, known as the "Patricians," who trace their ancestry back to the ancient Aldmer. These noble families wield significant influence and power in Altmer society, often holding critical government, academia, and the arts positions. They are respected for their ancient bloodlines and magical prowess.
Beneath the Patricians are the "Merchants," who comprise the Altmer middle class. They engage in various trade activities within Summerset Isle and with other provinces of Tamriel. While not possessing the same social standing as the Patricians, the Merchants are essential for the economic prosperity of Altmer society. They contribute to the wealth and stability of the realm and often hold positions of influence in commercial enterprises.
The lowest rung of Altmer society is occupied by the "Commoners" or the working class. Commoners engage in various occupations, such as laborers, artisans, farmers, and servants. While they may not possess the same privileges as the higher classes, they still play a vital role in the functioning of Altmer society, providing the necessary labor and services to sustain the realm.
Altmer society places a strong emphasis on intellectual pursuits and the cultivation of knowledge. They value education, art, and magical proficiency. Altmer children receive rigorous education from a young age, focusing on academic subjects, magical arts, and the history and traditions of their people. Pursuing knowledge and magical mastery is seen as a noble endeavor, and Altmer scholars and mages are highly respected within their society.
Regarding interactions with other races within their homeland, the Altmer can be pretty aloof and haughty. They perceive themselves as the most civilized and intellectually advanced race in Tamriel. As a result, they often view other races with a sense of superiority and arrogance. Altmer tend to keep their interactions with outsiders to a minimum, preferring to maintain the purity of their society. While they may tolerate the presence of other races in Summerset Isle for trade or diplomatic purposes, they often do not fully integrate or accept them as equals.
Altmer society values the preservation of their cultural heritage and traditions. They take great pride in their ancient lineage and connection to the Aldmer, considering themselves the direct descendants of the original elven race. This deep-rooted pride can sometimes lead to cultural isolationism and a reluctance to embrace outside influences.
In summary, Altmer society is characterized by a rigid social structure, with Patricians at the top, followed by Merchants and Commoners. They prioritize intellectual pursuits, magical mastery, and the preservation of their cultural heritage. While they may act with a sense of superiority towards other races in their homeland, their focus is primarily on maintaining the integrity of their society and furthering their pursuits of knowledge and magical excellence.