Sun Elves, Drow, and Wild Elves, consider Valnore to be their homeland.
The last true war in Astvanor was over the rightful claim to Valnorian lands. Nearly 200 years ago, the contentious war between Previdian and Valnore in order to end Previdian occupation of Valnorian lands established both nations as they remain today as well as the Council of Seven. This has been problematic for relations with the humans of Previdian. While the human monarchy has considered their war to have been ancient and old, to the elves it was the war they fought it, a war they lost comrades and loved ones to.
The elves of Valnore are extremely proud and traditional people - often viewed as pretentious and aloof because of this. However, those who live in Valnore thing of themselves as a people still recovering from a traumatic occupation and war. Because of this, elves of Valnore can be distrusting of outsiders, protective of their traditions, and sensitive about their place in the world. Silvrafel, the capital city, is home to the Solray Academy, one of the leading magic academies in Astvanor.
Valnore touts itself as being a liberated nation, free to rule itself - though it is worth noting that not all those who call Valnore their homeland are elves. South of the Springrest, clans of Tabaxi and Lizardfolk have been living and trading just as long as the Valnorian elves. Zek'lan Tsa'a is the birthplace of many Lizardfolk of Astvanor, who often still make their homes in the marshy wetlands along the south-western coast. Often, however, the rule of law in Valnore does not extend much further south than Solray Village. The Springrest, a sacred grove and the resting place of the mortal body of the goddess Alaeymena, considers itself autonomous from Valnore - a sentiment that the people of Valnore often agree upon.
Calling Valnore a "kingdom" is both incorrect and considered nearly an insult to the Valnorian people. Following the occupation of Previdian, a council of five elves was created to determine the fate and future of the nation. The first decree made by what would later become the Valnorian High Council was the "Disestablishment Order", officially naming Valnore an independent and council-run nation and declaring that there is never be a reigning monarch in Valnore again.
The Valnorian High Council comprises of the same five elves who founded the council. Twice a month hold open council meetings, where the people of Valnore are encouraged to come and bring their arguments, problems, and questions before the council. These often become contentious and tedious meetings.
The hand behind nearly every piece of text produced by the High Council, Lord Vae'sarel's talent for the written word is only matched by his talent for crafting laws, regulations, and treaties. His brilliant knack for politics and his charming wit often make him the voice of the Council.
General of Valnore, Ranger-General of the Arrow Guard, Lady Valethra Tassarel hails from a long and respected family military tradition. She served the majority of the War of Valnorian Independence as a captain under her uncle, the late General Les'vara Tassarel. She is as cold in battle as she is in polite company.
High Magister of the Valnorian High Council, and Headmaster of the Solray Academy, a school started by his grandfather, Lord Solray is a man of status and power. He is often seen as cold and detached, with little time spent outside of the academy or his family estate. As an evocation wizard he is highly regarded among peers, and feared among enemies. His actions at the end of the war earned him the title "the Flamesword" and a reputation as being truly merciless.
Trained in the Springrest, Lady Navara'dal Sunstriker is an accomplished and powerful cleric of Alaeymena. She serves not only as High Cleric on the council in Valnore, but also as High Priestess on the ruling council at the Springrest. Her loyalties are rarely split, however in times of strife some in Valnore have accused her of leaning her favor towards those in the Springrest over the needs of her people. Though, people in Springrest often say the same, accusing her of favoring her homeland.
The Noble Kavisha Nas'atael-Velanya serves as ambassador to Previdian, a role that requires dignity and grace. They attend the meetings of the Council of Seven on behalf of Valnore and advocate for the good of the nation. Their duties outside of these meetings, however, often encompass substantial amounts of travel and the overseeing of emissaries, envoys, and the ambassadors to other nations across Astvanor.