What comes to mind when you think of “elves”?
Beautiful, noble, and above all, pure-hearted.
A race of the forest, cherishing honor and peace, with free spirits?
Or perhaps, arrogant beings who look down on other races, those accursed “cunning elves” who often end up as villains?
The first elves I encountered were from the movie “The Lord of the Rings”.
Graceful movements.
Exceptional archery skills, beauty beyond gender.
Above all, they were trustworthy allies who fought alongside humans against evil.
It was impossible not to be captivated by their allure.
The elves I later encountered in fantasy novels were similar.
Oddly enough, they often ended up captured as slaves,
But they were still portrayed as kind-hearted beings.
With their bows, magic, and spirits, they were dependable companions to the protagonists.
But at some point, the concept of elves began to change.
Pride replaced honor, and hatred for other races overshadowed their love of peace.
So-called “pointy-eared bastards”, turning into the accursed “cunning elves.”
“This isn’t right. Elves aren’t supposed to be like this!”
As I read yet another novel featuring an obnoxious elf character,
I clutched my head, convinced: real elves wouldn’t act this way.
These “cunning elves” needed to be eradicated as a concept!
Please, someone, anyone, stop this tragic era of elf hatred!
Please, please!
*
And then, it happened to me.
When I opened my eyes, my ears had turned pointy.
Shocked, I jumped up and opened the door, only to find a whole new world.
An endless, vast forest stretched before me, inhabited by elves.
They were beautiful, free-spirited, and above all, dignified.
Just like the radiant elves I first saw in movies.
Yes, this is what elves are supposed to be.
How could a race that lives for centuries be so foolish?
They use magic, commune with spirits—how could they ever be hateful?
“Elves are the best.”
Touching my now far more handsome face, I smiled.
Despite the sudden possession,
I thought, “This isn’t so bad.”
I was confident that my life—
No, my life as an elf—
Would be filled with nothing but happiness!
*
…And then 30 years passed.
“Damned cunning elves.”
I was now on the verge of succumbing to an extreme hatred of my own kind.