In the Shattered Isles, the Avariel—also known as winged elves—are a rare and enigmatic race, their origins tracing back to the fragmented remnants of the Forgotten Realms. These ethereal beings are distinguished by their majestic feathered wings, which grant them the ability to soar through the skies.

Avariel possess a delicate yet muscular build, standing between 5 to over 6 feet tall. Their skin is often porcelain white, and their eyes, slightly larger than those of other elves, range in color from brilliant blues to greens or purples. Their hair typically appears in shades of silver-white or black. The most striking feature of the Avariel is their expansive wings, which can span up to 10 feet when fully extended. These wings are usually white but can also be black, brown, or speckled.

Avariel society is divided into two distinct groups: the warlike and the peaceful. The warlike Avariel are governed by war chiefs and live by a complex code of honor, dedicating their lives to defending their race. They are formidable warriors, often utilizing ranged attacks from above. In contrast, the peaceful Avariel are scholars, philosophers, and artists who believe in solving problems through reason and diplomacy. They spend much of their time researching magic and history, contemplating religion, and producing art for the sheer joy of creation.

Most Avariel revere Aerdrie Faenya, the elven goddess of air, sky, and weather. They acknowledge the other deities of the Seldarine to a minor extent, but Aerdrie Faenya is held above all, as she is considered to be the one who saved them from extinction by intervening in their favour.

Avariel have good relationships with other good-aligned avian races, such as the aarakocra, with whom they share the same patron deity and respect for nature. They also have respectful and admiring bonds with giant eagles. However, malicious dragons consider Avariel enemies and view their magic as a threat.

In the Shattered Isles, Avariel enclaves are often found atop isolated mountain peaks or within floating islands, allowing them to remain secluded from other civilizations. These settlements are designed to accommodate their need for open skies and freedom of flight.

Avariel adventurers are rare but not unheard of. Those who venture into the wider world often do so out of a sense of curiosity, a desire to protect their people, or a quest for knowledge. Their unique abilities and perspectives make them valuable allies in the diverse and fragmented world of the Shattered Isles.

Avariel names are melodic and airy, often reflecting their connection to the skies and the natural world. They are typically longer than other elven names but are often shortened in casual conversation.

• Male Names: Aelarion, Caelithar, Saryndor, Thalorion, Vaerithan, Aerathil, Calenor, Faenorin, Lytharion, Sylvarin.
• Female Names: Aeralynn, Caelira, Faelithe, Illyndra, Myraelle, Seralynn, Thaliana, Vilyssia, Aerindel, Lythaera.
• Shortened/Common Names: Ael, Cael, Saryn, Thal, Vaer, Aeris, Cal, Fae, Illy, Syl.
• Family and Clan Names: Avariel family names often reference celestial phenomena, birds, or weather.
  • Skyfeather, Dawnwhisper, Windgale, Starsoar, Stormwing, Clouddancer, Moonsight, Galecrest, Sunflare, Zephyrsong.

As an Avariel, you have the following racial traits:

• Ability Score Increases. Your Dexterity score increases by 2, and your Charisma score increases by 1.
• Creature Type. You are a Humanoid.
• Size. Avariel are slender and tall, standing between 5 and 6.5 feet. Your size is Medium.
• Speed. Your walking speed is 30 feet.
• Flight. You have a flying speed of 30 feet. To use this speed, you cannot be wearing medium or heavy armour.
• Wings of the Sky. You have feathered wings that grant you the ability to fly. However, your wings are vulnerable to damage in combat or harsh conditions. If your wings take damage or are incapacitated (at DM discretion), you must make a DC 15 Constitution saving throw to maintain your ability to fly.
• Aerial Grace. You have proficiency in the Acrobatics skill.
• Avian Awareness. You are attuned to the winds and skies, granting you advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight or hearing.
• Skyborne Adaptation. You can hold your breath for up to 15 minutes and are resistant to cold damage from exposure to high altitudes.
• Keen Sight. Your large, elven eyes grant you superior vision. You have proficiency in the Investigation skill, and you can see in dim light as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light, up to 60 feet.
• Tranquil Heart. Avariel value reason and calmness, granting them an advantage on saving throws against being frightened.
• Languages. You can speak, read, and write Common, Elvish, and Auran (the language of air elementals).

This feat can be taken as part of a level 1 character’s background if they meet the species prerequisite.

Prerequisite: Avariel

• Your inherent connection to the skies and your innate agility enhance your prowess:
• Increase your Dexterity score by 1, to a maximum of 20.
• You gain proficiency in Acrobatics. If you already have proficiency, you gain expertise in Acrobatics instead, allowing you to double your proficiency bonus.
• When you Dash, you can take to the air for a number of feet equal to your walking speed, provided you end your movement on a solid surface.