History of the Taur'Quessir

The Taur'Quessir, or Forest Elves, are the most numerous race of elves found in Sosaria. They never left the ancient city of Ilcasilme and were led by the wise elven elder Nandesece. She instilled in them the importance of their heritage and the power of knowledge. Ilcasilme was their home till they were forced to flee to the deep hidden forests of Sosaria by Mondain. By remaining in the forests they were able to preserve their culture from outside influences. They were not changed by extreme climates and the need to adapt like their kin who had left Ilcasilme. The Taur'Quessir cities and settlements seem ageless to the visitor. These magical places are indeed so similar to the settlements of old that they seem to be portals back to the time before the splitting off of the tribes and Mondain.

The Taur’Quessir love the land and its creatures and feel that it is their duty to protect the gifts the Powers have given. This has been the cause of many wars in Elven History for nature is itself a shrine to them and they will not tolerate any desecration of it. Today the Taur'Quessir are still the most similar race to the ancient elves of long ago. Like in ancient times they are led by a group of elders and even sometimes a monarchy. When the Elven races came together again to unite after the time of Mondain and formed the Ancient Order they chose to continue with this form of government. When the Ancient Order of Elves had formed, the great city of Eldador was built on top of the ruins of Ilcasilme. This greatly pleased the Taur’Quessir who still considered it their homeland, and many of them are responsible for the expansion of Eldador.

Characteristics of the Taur'Quessir

The Taur’Quessir are the most common and largest race of Elves in Sosaria. Unlike the other elven races they did not need to develop from a smaller group of elves but simply continued on in their ancient homeland. Thus they are the most plentiful and most resemble the elven culture of old. They value knowledge over all things and feel that the past greatly effects the future. Knowledge of the past prevents misfortune. They are fair skinned but can tan slightly when in the sun. Their hair is usually blond, however shades of brown are common and even redheads are not unheard of. Taur’Quessir eyes can come in all colors but are most commonly blue or green. Their love for the land and its creatures gives them an indescribable bond to animals. Taur’Quessir make exceptional tamers and bond quickly with their pets. Their connection to the land’s forces also makes them very adept mages, and since reagents are easily obtained in the wilderness, most begin learning to wield the arcane powers at a very young age. Their esteem for learning also contributes to the draw towards magery.