Seldarine

Lore & Background

Originating from ancient myths that predate human history, the Seldarine were formed when Corellon Larethian rallied a group of deities to protect his people. They are often depicted as elegant and powerful beings who value beauty, nature, and long-term planning above all else. Their influence is deeply woven into elven society, dictating laws, festivals, and magical traditions. A defining moment in their history was the schism involving Lolth, who led a faction of elves away to become the drow, rejecting Corellon's light for the shadows of the Underdark. This event fractured the original pantheon but solidified the Seldarine's identity as defenders of surface elvenkind. Over millennia, they have weathered wars, magical upheavals like the Spellplague, and divine conflicts while maintaining their presence in Faerûn. Key members include Corellon Larethian himself, along with Selûne, Eilistraee, Milil, and Hanali Celanil. Each deity holds specific portfolios that reflect different facets of elven life, from the hunter's path to the bard's song.

In Their Own Story

Elara knelt upon the mossy stone of the shrine, her silver hair cascading over armor worn by centuries. Above, the twin moons cast a pale glow upon the silver statue of Corellon. She whispered prayers for protection against the encroaching shadows of the Underdark, feeling the ancient magic hum through the earth beneath her palms. A gentle breeze carried the scent of pine and starlight, answering her plea with a silent promise that the gods watched over their children.

Reader's Guide

The Seldarine represents the spiritual heart of elven civilization in Faerûn, dating back to the earliest days when elves first walked the world alongside humans and dwarves. While specific creation myths vary by region, most traditions agree that Corellon Larethian gathered these deities to protect his people from chaotic forces. Their worship emphasizes harmony with nature, artistic expression, and martial prowess, distinguishing surface elves from their drow kin who follow different dark powers. Historically, the pantheon suffered a significant schism when Lolth led the dark elves away into the Underdark, fracturing the divine family forever. Despite this loss, the Seldarine remained steadfast in Arvandor, their paradise realm within the Feywild. During the Spellplague and subsequent magical upheavals, these gods maintained their portfolios, though some shifted slightly to address new threats against surface elves. Today, temples dedicated to the Seldarine serve as community hubs for elven enclaves, offering guidance on magic, law, and beauty. Priests act as diplomats and healers, preserving ancient traditions while adapting to a changing world. Understanding the Seldarine is crucial for grasping why elves value long-term planning and deep connections to history, as their faith shapes every aspect of their societal structure from birth rites to funeral ceremonies.

Did You Know?

• Corellon Larethian is often depicted with a single horn or antlers on his forehead.
• Lolth was once considered part of the Seldarine before leading the drow away.
• Arvandor, their home realm, is located within the Feywild plane.
• The pantheon places high value on music and art as forms of divine expression.