that's because for the common people, elves are divided betwwen :
a) long-eared folks (but not considered proper elves by the "elves")
b) elves, servant of the gods and protectors of the world trees, therefore a status above kings and emperors for all law-abiding, god-fearing people
c) high-elves, immortal beings leading elven tribes and being used as living interface between people/gods/world trees