Drow

Archives of Nethys: Drow

Male Names: Arcavato, Drovic, Firyin, Kaelmourn, Mirrendier, Pharnox, Syrendross, Zov

Female Names: Belmarniss, Cylellinth, Ilvaria, Johysis, Loscivia, Tyvorhan, Ulumbralya, Volundeil

Drow, also called dark elves, are a shadowed reflection of the elven race. They dwell in subterranean cities carved from massive caverns, rarely revealing themselves to surface societies. Though not inherently evil, drow culture emphasizes cunning, survival, and self-interest, with nonconformists often quickly removed. Drow thrive through secrecy, manipulation, and the careful cultivation of power, often using proxies and agents to achieve their goals.

Drow are similar in stature to humans, but retain the slender build and pointed features of elves. Skin ranges from coal black to dusky purple, and hair is typically white or silver. Eyes lack pupils and are usually solid white or red. They move with a quiet, graceful precision, giving them a subtly dangerous presence. Male drow are slightly more muscular than their female counterparts, while females carry an aura of authority and control.

Drow society is matriarchal and hierarchical. Male drow usually serve martial roles, defending cities and houses, while females lead, govern, and influence politics. Noble houses govern all aspects of drow life, tied to demon lord patrons, and politics are dominated by intrigue, treachery, and assassination. Social status is earned through cunning, magical ability, or martial prowess, and one’s position is often reinforced by ruthless manipulation of others.

Drow view themselves as superior to most other races. Non-drow are generally treated as slaves, tools, or potential allies if their goals align with drow interests. Drow may cooperate with orcs, hobgoblins, or other ambitious humanoids, while shunning dwarves, halflings, gnomes, and most surface elves. Surface elves are regarded with particular hostility, as rivals and enemies. Shadow-adapted races like fetchlings are regarded with cautious curiosity.

Most drow are chaotic evil, valuing personal power and survival above morality or compassion. They channel strong emotions—hatred, ambition, and desire—into their schemes and pursuits. While many follow no deity, those who do venerate powers connected to darkness, trickery, or domination.

Drow frequently become adventurers as spies, assassins, or agents of noble houses. Male drow often pursue martial or stealth roles, such as fighters, rogues, or rangers. Female drow excel as clerics, bards, wizards, or summoners, leveraging both leadership and arcane talent. Their natural grace, cunning, and magical aptitude make drow versatile and dangerous allies or enemies.