The Firstborn Children of Iluvatar, who awoke by the shores of Cuivienen under the stars before the rising of the Sun and Moon. Immortal unless slain, the Elves are the fairest and wisest of all races. They are divided into many kindreds: the Vanyar, Noldor, and Teleri (who answered the summons to Valinor) and the various Moriquendi who remained in Middle-earth, including the Sindar and Silvan Elves. The Noldor returned to Middle-earth in pursuit of Morgoth and the Silmarils. Throughout the Ages, the Elves diminish, and by the end of the Third Age most are departing for the Undying Lands.