“Githyanki” (is Elvish for “Gith” meaning Eternally and “yanki” meaning banished) – were elves who did not believe in bending the knee to the gods of the world. They turned away from the gods and channeled the sheer power of arcane magic instead – and began practicing ancient magic that allowed them to tamper with time and dimensions. Eventually they banded together, and decided they would leave the world. They did so, by following the commands of what the Elves believe to be a “Snake Demon” by the name of Nebakrau (loosely based on the name of the Egyptian Snake God, Nehebkau). Nebakrau was supposedly a powerful demon who was destined to garner followers – and with their help, would open portals to the world, so that his coils could enter the world and crush all life. The Elves believe the Githyanki are those followers of Nebakrau who may bring the end of the world, and thus earned the eternal hatred of every elf – including the Drow.

The Githyanki, with their devotion to the serpent demon, Nebakrau developed serpentine like features mixed with their elven appearance.