Veld

On page 24 of the PHB under "Dark Elf (Drow)" it says:

"Descended from an earlier subrace of dark-skinned elves, the drow were banished from the surface world for following the goddess Lolth Fezba down the path to evil and corruption."

The Veld are that earlier subrace. Unlike their Drow descendants, most Veld are not evil. Though shorter than Drow (average Veld height is 4-5 ft vs Drow average of 5-6 ft) they look similar (usually more grey-skinned, rather than obsidian), and are frequently confused with Drow by ignorant people. Because of this, Veld are often shunned or held in unjust suspicion or discrimination.

They are a subterranean race, most of whom live in the root-city of Asyana beneath Elenel.

Playable Subrace

Players may play Veld. In addition to Elf Traits, Veld get the following:

• Ability Score Increase: Your Wisdom score increases by 1.
• Veld Magic: Wisdom is your spellcasting ability for these spells
  • You know the Dancing Lights cantrip
  • When you reach 3rd level, you can cast the Entangle spell once per long rest. When cast by a Veld, roots spring from the ground, rather than weeds and vines.
  • When you reach 5th level, you can also cast Misty Step once per long rest.
• Veld Weapon Training: You have proficiency with rapiers, shortswords, shields, and shortbow.