Mermaids

Habitat 

 The land of Elyria’s mermaids is a vast and mystical underwater kingdom, located in the deep, uncharted expanses beneath Elyria’s oceans. This underwater realm is scattered with ancient sunken cities, coral forests, and deep trenches, where the ocean floor is rich in minerals and rare resources. The cities are often carved into massive underwater cliffs and caves, with some structures reaching upwards into the light of the surface, while others delve deep into the blackest parts of the sea. The land of Elyria’s mermaids is connected by vast networks of ocean currents, where the flow of water is as important as the flow of life itself. Though there are stretches of calm seas, most parts of the kingdom are turbulent, and these mermaids thrive in this unpredictable environment.

Lifespan & Growth 

 Mermaids of Elyria live long lives, often reaching well over 100 years when they avoid the dangers of deep sea predators and the turbulence of the waters. While the average lifespan is around 90 years, many mermaids, particularly those who are closely connected to the sea and its magic, can live for centuries. Those who have truly mastered the deep currents are said to never die of age, instead dissolving into the ocean as part of its eternal flow.

Faith & Mysticism 

 The mermaids of Elyria hold a deep reverence for the Great Tide, the primal force that governs the oceans and all life within them. They believe the sea is alive, its tides and currents embodying the breath of their world. While their belief is not about gods in the traditional sense, they respect the forces of nature as living entities. Some mermaids venerate Dagon, the keeper of balance, especially in times of great turmoil, when the seas rage. Necromancy is not viewed as taboo; in fact, it is seen as a natural extension of the ocean's life cycle—death and rebirth are as inevitable as the tides themselves. The rituals of honoring the dead involve guiding their spirits into the depths, allowing them to merge with the ocean’s eternal soul.

Cultural Structure 

 Elyrian mermaid society revolves around a complex hierarchy based on knowledge, strength, and connection to the tides. While the society is generally free, the mermaids believe in the importance of maintaining the natural order of the sea. The mermaid leaders, known as Tidebinders, are often the oldest or most powerful mermaids, those who have mastered the ways of the sea and are entrusted with the protection of their people. Below them are the Currentwalkers, warriors who defend their people and maintain the flow of the ocean by controlling the currents that dictate the seasons and ocean health. Hydromancers, powerful mages, are highly respected and responsible for controlling the tides and nurturing the underwater ecosystems.

Structural Design 

 The architecture of Elyrian mermaid cities is built in harmony with the ocean. Their homes are often constructed from coral, enchanted stone, and bioluminescent plants. These cities are fluid in design, naturally blending into the underwater landscape, and structures grow out of the ocean itself. Some cities are carved into underwater cliffs or great stone spires, where light from the surface breaks through the water, illuminating the grand halls. There are also sprawling coral gardens, fields of seaweed farms, and sacred pools used in rituals. The deeper into the sea one travels, the more twisted and organic the architecture becomes, shaped by the influence of magic and the ever-shifting sea.

Resources & Exchange 

Mermaids in Elyria gain wealth through their control of the oceans and the resources it provides. They trade in pearls, underwater breathing items, enchanted coral, and deep-sea minerals that are highly sought after by surface dwellers for their magical properties. Their cities are filled with merchants who specialize in rare goods, from potions to rare seafood that can only be found in the deepest parts of the ocean. The greatest treasure of all, however, is their knowledge of the ocean’s secrets—many of which are sought by adventurers, magicians, and those brave enough to venture into the depths.

Bondage & Duty 

 Slavery in mermaid society is rare, but there are cases where mermaids from rival factions or other peoples are enslaved, particularly those who are caught trespassing in the sacred, protected waters. Those who commit offenses against the mermaids or disrupt the balance of the ocean may find themselves in servitude for a time. However, this form of servitude is usually seen as a way for individuals to redeem themselves, and they may earn their freedom if they prove their loyalty to the ocean or its people.