Uthenera

Uthenera (literally "long sleep" or "endless dream") is a slumber-like state which elders of the ancient elves voluntary entered when they became weary of life and memories. While their bodies would remain in the mortal realm, their spirits would cross the Veil and wander the shifting paths of the Beyond, accompanied by two children of Mythal - Falon'Din and his twin brother Dirthamen This state did not necessarily equal death, as some would return after centuries of sleep and share the secrets of dreams with the People. Yet many would never wake up: their bodies would deteriorate and they would in fact die.

The Dalish claim that in the time of Elvhenan uthenera was viewed as an act of reverence. An elder would retire to a chamber that was one part bed and one part tomb and, to great ceremony from all the extended family, would succumb to slumber. The family would continue to visit the chamber to pay respect to the one who made such a sacrifice. The Brecilian Ruins in Ferelden and the Sundermount in the Vimmark Mountains are notable sites where elven elders came to sleep.

With the arrival of humans the practice of uthenera began to fade until it ceased forever after the fall of Arlathan.

Trivia

 * There are two known poems dedicated to uthenera: one is recited by Leliana and another one - by Paivel.
 * Merrill also recites a part of the first poem at Mythal's altar during the Long Way Home quest, which results in "resurrection" of Flemeth.
 * The journal of a dreamer Keeper Marethari may give to Hawke is called the Tome of the Slumbering Elders, hinting that elves practicing uthenera were ancient dreamers.
 * "Uthenera" also means "immortal" in the elven language.