Elvhen Magic

Though both elves and humans magic derive from The Fade there was a time when all elves were born with magic. There was no need for the word "mage" for magic was as much a part of them as breathing. This indicates a special connection with the Fade and we see this in their recently recovered magical lore as well as in the Keeper specialisation. In Arcane Warrior there is a very powerful and ancient talent which uses the Fade as a shield and augmentation of weapons which is nothing like what we see in The Circle of Magi, nor any other human magical culture.

Their lack of a spirit healer specialisation suggests two things - their reverence for the "Beyond" (what they call the Fade) and that it is yet another lost piece of lore. We do know that they do not fear demons in the same way as the Circle, they deal with them but more often than not do not do "deals" with them. Blood magic is not forbidden, in fact the Rite of Vallaslin is a type of blood magic and Keepers and Firsts in the canon series have used this type of magic, but it is not encouraged and more... frowned upon by the Dalish. Spirits are treated, for the most part, the same as demons and any dealings in the Fade are done with caution, wisdom and reverence. Elves appear to have a more intuitive connection to the Beyond than humans; spirit and creation magic are seemingly intrinsic to Elvhen nature and culture, again hinting at their once immortal and magical lives and ways. This "spirituality" and organic way of using magic is evidenced in Dalish culture and the way that Keepers use magic and teach it. These are precepts being solidified in Ostagar where a new centre of elvhen magic and discovery is being built. They seek to not only reclaim their heritage but forge new lore and evolve.

One thing is certain, the elves treat magic very differently and their abilities and natural talents are unique to their race. Through their Keepers they are rediscovering lost lore and may one day find out what truly happened to Arlathan.

It is possible their connection and beliefs about the Fade are linked to their religious beliefs about the Creators. Spirits and Demons resided in the same realm as the Creators and elves appear to have a greater knowledge of the Beyond and its denizens than humans could ever hope to have. Human mages are like da'len lost in the dark and the elves see them as foolish and dealing with forces they can never hope to comprehend.