Skifra Elves

Not to be confused with Forest Elves or Glade Elves, Skifra Elves are an almost extinct race of elves that live in small villages scattered throughout the Valresh continent in spruce biomes. It is unknown how the Skifra came to be in the spruce woods of Valresh.

Appearance
Skifra Elves have a range of skin tones, which can vary from pale to deep brown. Their hair is typically a dark shade of black, however rare occurrences of dark brown hair have been seen from the elves. This variation in skin tone and hair color is believed to be the result of adaptation to their natural environment and the varying levels of exposure to sunlight. Skifra Elves have striking, almond-shaped eyes that are often described as being "bright" or "sparkling". Their eye color ranges from shades of green, blue, gray, and brown. On very rare occurrences, a Skifra elf will have amber red colored eyes. Skifra Elves have distinct facial features, which are characterized by high cheekbones, narrow noses, and pointed chins. Their faces are often described as being "elfin" or "ethereal", and their expressions are known to be subtle and nuanced. The physical body of Skifra Elves are slender, which is the result of adaption to the forest dwelling lifestyle. Skifra elves are shorter than Humans, being about three and four feet tall, and have a lean and agile physique.

Community and Social Structure
Skifra Elves live in small, tight communities, of which are scattered throughout the Valresh continent’s spruce forests. These elves live in simple homes made up of the environment around them being organic materials such as spruce wood, ferns, leaves, and other natural materials. These villages are lead by the village’s shaman or the spouse of the shaman in the absence of the shaman. The shaman is responsible for making important decisions and maintaining the spiritual traditions of the village. Skifra Elves place a strong emphasis on community and family ties. They value cooperation and mutual support, and work together to gather resources and meet the needs of the community. They are also fiercely protective of their culture and traditions, and are wary of outsiders.

Nature and Environment
As elves who devote most their life living in the forests without leaving it, Skifra Elves have a deep reverence for nature and the environment. They believe that all living things are connected and must be respected and cared for. Skifra Elves are skilled hunters and gatherers, and rely on the natural resources of their environment for sustenance. They have a unique ability to communicate with animals and plants, and are skilled in herbalism and natural healing. Skifra Elves believe in the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with the natural world. They practice sustainable hunting and gathering techniques and take great care to preserve the natural habitats of the animals and plants that they rely on for survival. Possibly because of their strong sense of community, Skifra Elves are distrustful of outsiders and are hesitant to share their knowledge and skills with those outside of their own race. They also rarely leave the village and rarely trade with outsiders.

Arts and Crafts
Skifra Elves are skilled craftsmen, and their arts and crafts reflect their deep connection to nature and the environment. They are known for their woodworking, and their homes are often decorated with intricate carvings and engravings. Skifra Elves also practice weaving, and create beautiful tapestries and garments made from natural fibers.

Skifra Elves have a rich musical tradition, and their music is often accompanied by dance. Their music is characterized by its haunting melodies and intricate rhythms, and is often played on traditional instruments such as harp, flutes, violin, and the drums. Skifra Elves believe that music and dance are a way to connect with the natural world and the spirits that reside within it.