[Sombre]

I thought about magic for HEs and concluded that magic somewhat similar to the Slann (high astral with all other paths but death and blood) but without the extra focus on nature and with more in fire. While High Elves /can/ take a death based lore (amethyst) and a slightly deathy air one (grey) they were always in direct opposition with both necromancy and 'dark' magic.

They are definitely second to slann in terms of overall magic.

Regarding White Lions, Swordmasters Phoenix Guard, I think they can be suitably differentiated - as they are in warhammer. Phoenix Guard are justifiably sacred, have the best morale and wear the heaviest armour. White Lions have a 'shield' vs missiles in the form of their cloak, have the best str and highest damage weapons plus mapmove 2 and forest survival. Swordmasters have unparalleled combat stats but no shield, better mr and only medium heavy armour.

Again that's just how I'd thought about it though, there are many ways HEs could be done well.