The Wood Elves, or Asrai, are the reclusive and enigmatic guardians of the sentient forest of Athel Loren. Descended from High Elves who chose to remain in the Old World, they have forged a unique bond with the primeval woods, becoming an integral part of its mystical ecosystem.
Core Identity and Beliefs
Athel Loren: More than just a forest, Athel Loren is a living entity, a powerful spiritual force that shapes the Wood Elves and which they, in turn, fiercely protect. Its paths shift, its trees whisper secrets, and its glades can be places of breathtaking beauty or terrifying danger.
Isolationism: The Asrai are deeply distrustful of outsiders, whom they term "Mayflies" due to their short lifespans and perceived lack of understanding of the natural world. They rarely venture beyond Athel Loren's borders except to defend it or to answer an ancient call.
The Cycle of Seasons: Wood Elf society and power are intrinsically linked to the changing seasons, embodied by their demigod rulers, Orion and Ariel. Orion, the King in the Woods, represents the wild hunt and the forest's fury, waxing in power during spring and summer. Ariel, the Mage Queen, embodies the forest's magic and life, her influence strongest throughout the year but particularly potent in nurturing growth.
The Kindreds: Wood Elf society is organized into various Kindreds, each with distinct traditions and roles, such as the Wild Riders who embody the hunt, or the Waywatchers, peerless scouts and ambushers.
Military Prowess
The armies of the Wood Elves are masters of guerrilla warfare, relying on speed, unmatched archery, and the potent magic of Athel Loren.
- Archery: Wood Elf archers, particularly Glade Guard and Waywatchers, are renowned as some of the finest marksmen in the Warhammer world, capable of loosing devastating volleys with pinpoint accuracy.
- Forest Spirits: They fight alongside creatures of the forest, including Dryads, Tree Kin, and the colossal Treemen, ancient beings who embody the wrath of Athel Loren.
- Cavalry: Swift cavalry units like Glade Riders and the formidable Wild Riders harass enemy flanks and hunt down fleeing foes.
- Magic: Wood Elf spellweavers draw upon the Lore of Athel Loren, wielding potent nature magic to ensnare enemies, heal allies, or summon the forest's fury.
Notable Units
Glade Guard: The backbone of any Wood Elf army, skilled archers capable of felling foes from afar.
Eternal Guard: Elite spearmen who form a steadfast defensive line, protecting the sacred glades.
Wild Riders of Kurnous: The fierce vanguard of Orion's Wild Hunt, embodying untamed aggression.
Waywatchers: Unsurpassed scouts and masters of ambush, striking from the shadows.
Dryads: Nimble and deadly forest spirits, born from the trees themselves.
Treemen: Ancient and immensely powerful forest spirits, towering over the battlefield.
The Wood Elves are a force of nature, blending elven grace with the primal ferocity of the wilderness. They are a dangerous and unpredictable faction, committed to preserving the balance of their sacred home against all intruders.
