I hate short maps because the game isn't balanced in that case.
That's right – elves can't survive in short games (even Ossir won't help).
Here's how I would level up an elf on a large map:
Hero – either Wing or Ilfina, or Ossir.
We start with Ossir, then check the tavern and pray for Wing or Ilfina.
We level up:
1) Luck (up to Elven skill)
2) Logistics
3) Light
4) Attack
5) Leadership
Anwen has unnecessary defense for elves, so she's not on my list.