Oneidhae - Revision history

Gudrun: /* Religion */

2019-07-26T06:35:01Z

Religion

Gudrun: /* Inorganic Resources */

2019-07-26T06:26:13Z

Inorganic Resources

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	==Inorganic Resources==		==Inorganic Resources==

	Submarine volcanic activity throughout the vast deep sea landscape creates an abundance of minerals, but only specialized Oneidhae such as all Inumidans and certain Drudges and Pelagiads have the ability to dive into the deepest trenches of the ocean to carefully mine resources. The process of deep sea mining is laborious due to the delicate slow growing nature of deep sea corals, which are often found surrounding hydrothermal vents and volcanic ridges and many sea creatures depend on for spawning grounds and habitation. Inumidans ~~lay the~~ designs for the mines to ensure productivity and safety, but it is none-the-less a dangerous and sometimes fruitless job.		Submarine volcanic activity throughout the vast deep sea landscape creates an abundance of minerals, but only specialized Oneidhae such as all Inumidans and certain Drudges and Pelagiads have the ability to dive into the deepest trenches of the ocean to carefully mine resources. The process of deep sea mining is laborious due to the delicate slow growing nature of deep sea corals, which are often found surrounding hydrothermal vents and volcanic ridges and many sea creatures depend on them for spawning grounds and habitation. Inumidans carefully plan designs for the mines to ensure productivity and safety, but it is none-the-less a dangerous and sometimes fruitless job.

	Some of the most abundant minerals are gold and diamonds. So abundant, in fact, that to the Oneidhae they're worthless and often called the "Turds of Cephakos". The Oneidhae nonetheless protect these resources since the Tuil Sianaach crescent island was taken because of the presence of diamonds. They're not ignorant of the value these things hold for land dwellers. Other metals and minerals are valued more, instead.		Some of the most abundant minerals are gold and diamonds. So abundant, in fact, that to the Oneidhae they're worthless and often called the "Turds of Cephakos". The Oneidhae nonetheless protect these resources since the Tuil Sianaach crescent island was taken because of the presence of diamonds. They're not ignorant of the value these things hold for land dwellers. Other metals and minerals are valued more, instead.

	Copper can be found in the deep sea, but it'll quickly corrode in the salty ~~sea~~. Nickel on the other hand is resistant to corrosion.		Copper can be found in the deep sea, but it'll quickly corrode in the salty water. Nickel on the other hand is resistant to corrosion.

	Bronze and silver are valued in more or less the same way as land dwellers, thus traded by weight or used for currency		Bronze and silver are valued in more or less the same way as land dwellers, thus traded by weight or used for currency
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	Diamonds have more practical uses due to their hardness. They've been integrated into innovative new hull smasher designs, for instance.		Diamonds have more practical uses due to their hardness. They've been integrated into innovative new hull smasher designs, for instance.

	Obsidian is another abundant material created when deep sea lava flows harden rapidly in the cold water. The Oneidhae use obsidian, which can hold a sharper edge than metals, for arrowheads and knives. "Colene's Tears" are smooth and rounded obsidian stones that can be traded by its weight for goods ~~amongst~~ the Oneidhae. Some highly structured cities create standardized "coins" out of obsidian as ~~some of~~ the lowest ~~dominations~~.		Obsidian is another abundant material created when deep sea lava flows harden rapidly in the cold water. The Oneidhae use obsidian, which can hold a sharper edge than metals, for arrowheads and knives. "Colene's Tears" are smooth and rounded obsidian stones that can be traded by its weight for goods among the Oneidhae. Some highly structured cities create standardized "coins" out of obsidian as the lowest domination.

	Javanikrys' Tears, or Javanium, is priced ~~amongst~~ Oneidhae as equivalent to gold, and Colenium is priced equivalent to platinum. These are two metals found ~~in the deep sea and~~ buried beneath volcanic rocks found in deep ocean mountain ridges. Both are rust and corrosion proof and harder than mythril. Javanium is a light copper color, resistant to magic, and highly conductive for electricity. Colenium harnesses magical energies and is light weight. These metals aren't used for currency but are crafted into armor, weapons, and jewelry by Pelagiad smiths for the Myrmidons.		Javanikrys' Tears, or Javanium, is priced among Oneidhae as equivalent to gold, and Colenium is priced equivalent to platinum. These are two metals found buried beneath volcanic rocks found in deep ocean mountain ridges. Both are rust and corrosion proof and harder than mythril. Javanium is a light copper color, resistant to magic, and highly conductive for electricity. Colenium harnesses magical energies and is light weight. These metals aren't used for currency but are crafted into armor, weapons, and jewelry by Pelagiad smiths for the Myrmidons.

	==Organic Resources==		==Organic Resources==

Gudrun: /* Acoustics and Language */

2019-07-26T06:20:12Z

Acoustics and Language

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	==Acoustics and Language==		==Acoustics and Language==

	The use of sound has paramount importance to the Oneidhae. Because sound carries so well in water compared to light, the Oneidhae evolved highly sophisticated echolocation and communication methods, capable of inflecting and harmonizing sound waves like no other creatures. Merfolk communicate with each other through multi-ranged ~~song~~ that simultaneously ~~communicates~~ content, mood, social standing, level of importance and other intangible qualities. The higher castes have incrementally graceful command of language. A conversation between two highborn can almost qualify as a harmonic duet - pleasing to the ~~air~~ and infused with layers of meaning.		The use of sound has paramount importance to the Oneidhae. Because sound carries so well in water compared to light, the Oneidhae evolved highly sophisticated echolocation and communication methods, capable of inflecting and harmonizing sound waves like no other creatures. Merfolk communicate with each other through multi-ranged songs that simultaneously communicate content, mood, social standing, level of importance and other intangible qualities. The higher castes have an incrementally graceful command of language. A conversation between two highborn can almost qualify as a harmonic duet - pleasing to the ears and infused with layers of meaning.

			Oneidhae can engage their vocal cords to replicate surface speech but it loses a great deal of meaning in comparison. Surfacers have a hard time hearing Oneidhae speech since much of it occurs at a higher or lower register than most humanoid ears can discern. A great deal of Oneidhae artform is linked with the manipulation of sound and creative acoustics play an important role in city planning.

	Oneidhae can engage their vocal cords to replicate surface speech but it loses a great deal in comparison. Surfacers have a hard time hearing Oneidhae speech since much of it occurs at a higher or lower register than most humanoid ears can discern. A great deal of Oneidhae artform is linked with the manipulation of sound and creative acoustics play an important role in city planning.

	=Geography=		=Geography=

Gudrun: /* Family Structure and Education */

2019-07-26T06:17:02Z

Family Structure and Education

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	'''Thelassians''' have Pelagiads provide basic care for infants and education similar to governesses for children. Interaction with parents is scarce, since most Thelassians are kept busy with council meetings, checking on large scale civic projects, and governance during the day followed by extravagant parties with other Thelassians at night. Parents are none-the-less expected to teach religion starting at an early age. When Thelassians are adolescent, they're assigned mentorships to different Thelassians to hone skills such as political sciences, mathematics, the arcane arts, and philosophy. Depending on the faction, Thelassians will also be assigned to learn combat from Myrmidons. They also access the coveted Laws of Ullisa at adolescence which details the rules of the caste and punishments for breaking caste and committing other crimes. The entirety of their education is meant to prepare them to be the stewards of the Oneidhae, the ones meant to lead.		'''Thelassians''' have Pelagiads provide basic care for infants and education similar to governesses for children. Interaction with parents is scarce, since most Thelassians are kept busy with council meetings, checking on large scale civic projects, and governance during the day followed by extravagant parties with other Thelassians at night. Parents are none-the-less expected to teach religion starting at an early age. When Thelassians are adolescent, they're assigned mentorships to different Thelassians to hone skills such as political sciences, mathematics, the arcane arts, and philosophy. Depending on the faction, Thelassians will also be assigned to learn combat from Myrmidons. They also access the coveted Laws of Ullisa at adolescence which details the rules of the caste and punishments for breaking caste and committing other crimes. The entirety of their education is meant to prepare them to be the stewards of the Oneidhae, the ones meant to lead.

	'''Myrmidons''' rear young that are meant to be the protectors of the Oneidhae and enforcers of the law. They take pride in their carefully crafted ~~lineage~~, and the family unit is in fact very strong despite infrequent interactions. Training begins as soon as the young can hold a trident or glaive. They're sent to bootcamps in Ommastrephidae where their education and training is rigorous. Thelassians teach religion peppered with propaganda at monthly retreats in Coleneapolis. Myrmidons in training are allowed to return home once a year for a full month to recuperate. There are, in fact, female Myrmidons, though they are assigned as the protectorates of their local enclaves, cities, and palatial Thelassian estates. Males tend to form the armies meant to thwart foreign invaders at borders or are sent to the farthest reaches to clear out dissidents or enemies and claim new territory.		'''Myrmidons''' rear young that are meant to be the protectors of the Oneidhae and enforcers of the law. They take pride in their carefully crafted lineages, and the family unit is in fact very strong despite infrequent interactions. Training begins as soon as the young can hold a trident or glaive. They're sent to bootcamps in Ommastrephidae where their education and training is rigorous. Thelassians teach religion peppered with propaganda at monthly retreats in Coleneapolis. Myrmidons in training are allowed to return home once a year for a full month to recuperate. There are, in fact, female Myrmidons, though they are assigned as the protectorates of their local enclaves, cities, and palatial Thelassian estates. Males tend to form the armies meant to thwart foreign invaders at borders or are sent to the farthest reaches to clear out dissidents or enemies and claim new territory.

	'''Inumidans''' can have many half-sisters, half-brothers, and numerous extended family relationships. They reproduce with multiple partners from different communities or far enough removed in familial relations to avoid the bad kind of congenital defects, like organs on the outside. Though with so many born at once it can be hard to keep track. Education is tantamount to this caste, and they place their young in large boarding schools where learning is rigorous. They're a deeply religious caste, as well, and thus boarding schools focus primarily on religion for children with teachings branching out to arcane arts, engineering, and various sciences as they get older. The learning never ends for Inumidans, and as teenagers they automatically move on to the university in Iumentorpolis where they deepen their knowledge to become a master of a particular subject, such as city planning, architecture, civic engineering, arcane arts, alchemy, chemistry, etc, with the ability to earn minors in multiple subjects.		'''Inumidans''' can have many half-sisters, half-brothers, and numerous extended family relationships. They reproduce with multiple partners from different communities or far enough removed in familial relations to avoid the bad kind of congenital defects, like organs on the outside. Though with so many born at once it can be hard to keep track. Education is tantamount to this caste, and they place their young in large boarding schools where learning is rigorous. They're a deeply religious caste, as well, and thus boarding schools focus primarily on religion for children with teachings branching out to arcane arts, engineering, and various sciences as they get older. The learning never ends for Inumidans, and as teenagers they automatically move on to the university in Iumentorpolis where they deepen their knowledge to become a master of a particular subject, such as city planning, architecture, civic engineering, arcane arts, alchemy, chemistry, etc, with the ability to earn minors in multiple subjects.

Gudrun: /* Marriage */

2019-07-26T06:12:11Z

Marriage

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	The '''Thelassians''' have arranged marriages that bind political or business deals. '''Myrmidons''' are paired based on physique, as a breeding program to produce superior warriors. '''Pelagiads''' and '''Drudges''' have more leeway to choose who they marry within their respective caste, but arranged marriages between different reef communities are common in order to avoid inbreeding. Inumidans tend to abstain from marriage and produce young with multiple partners.		The '''Thelassians''' have arranged marriages that bind political or business deals. '''Myrmidons''' are paired based on physique, as a breeding program to produce superior warriors. '''Pelagiads''' and '''Drudges''' have more leeway to choose who they marry within their respective caste, but arranged marriages between different reef communities are common in order to avoid inbreeding. Inumidans tend to abstain from marriage and produce young with multiple partners.

	~~All~~ Oneidhae within Tuil Sianaach reefs strictly adhere to caste laws when practicing marriage customs. Thelassians will hold exquisite feasts and parties that may last for days. The lower castes are expected to pay tribute to the Thelassian couple with gifts, namely handcrafts. Depending on the Oneidhae faction, the lower caste is either paid to work the festivities or expected to donate their time. Lower caste weddings are very "do-it-yourself" with everyone within ~~the~~ caste contributing to organize, prepare, and commence the festivities. Inumidans simply don't get married unless it's to have named figureheads, but even that is just for show.		Oneidhae within Tuil Sianaach reefs strictly adhere to caste laws when practicing marriage customs. Thelassians will hold exquisite feasts and parties that may last for days. The lower castes are expected to pay tribute to the Thelassian couple with gifts, namely handcrafts. Depending on the Oneidhae faction, the lower caste is either paid to work the festivities or expected to donate their time. Lower caste weddings are very "do-it-yourself" with everyone within a city or enclave's caste community contributing to organize, prepare, and commence the festivities. Inumidans simply don't get married unless it's to have named figureheads, but even that is just for show.

	===Reproduction===		===Reproduction===

Gudrun: /* Common Appearance */

2019-07-26T06:10:33Z

Common Appearance

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	Head shape: ranges from almost human-looking to having a short dragon-like snout. Membranous appendages like those of an axolotl or a sea dragon may sweep back from their heads like hair. Some have short but nimble tentacles protruding from their lower jaws. Some have crests and quills. Many have large specialized eyes that have heightened sensitivity and can see into the ultraviolet spectrum to compensate for the low light underwater.		Head shape: ranges from almost human-looking to having a short dragon-like snout. Membranous appendages like those of an axolotl or a sea dragon may sweep back from their heads like hair. Some have short but nimble tentacles protruding from their lower jaws. Some have crests and quills. Many have large specialized eyes that have heightened sensitivity and can see into the ultraviolet spectrum to compensate for the low light underwater.

	Tail shape: Most of the merfolk have long fish-like or serpent-like tails below their torso. The fins and appendages coming out of the tail vary in shape and number. Some Oneidhae can separate their tails into two individually articulated legs to walk on land, while some others can slither on land like a naga. A ~~small~~ minority octopus-like tentacles for a bottom half instead of a tail.		Tail shape: Most of the merfolk have long fish-like or serpent-like tails below their torso. The fins and appendages coming out of the tail vary in shape and number. Some Oneidhae can separate their tails into two individually articulated legs to walk on land, while some others can slither on land like a naga. A minority have octopus-like tentacles for a bottom half instead of a tail.

	==Some Caste Groups==		==Some Caste Groups==

Gudrun: /* Notable Oneidhae */

2019-07-26T06:06:31Z

Notable Oneidhae

Gudrun at 06:04, 26 July 2019

2019-07-26T06:04:32Z

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	=Society and People=		=Society and People=

	The Oneidhae or merfolk come in a range of different appearances. There is some variation based on which city they're from, but caste plays the biggest role in determining an Oneidhae physiology. Strict adherence to the caste over hundreds of thousands of years caused stark differences between each group.		The Oneidhae or merfolk come in a range of different appearances. There is some variation based on which city they're from, but caste plays the biggest role in determining Oneidhae physiology. Strict adherence to the caste over hundreds of thousands of years caused stark differences between each group.

	Many Oneidhae, especially the nobility, believe that some castes are inherently superior to others and more fit to rule. The bottom castes have very little wealth and power, living like servants. When caste-mixing happens, the offspring tend to have difficult, ambiguous lives if they survive into adulthood.		Many Oneidhae, especially the nobility, believe that some castes are inherently superior to others and more fit to rule. The bottom castes have very little wealth and power, living like servants. When caste-mixing happens, the offspring tend to have difficult, ambiguous lives if they survive into adulthood.

Gudrun at 06:03, 26 July 2019

2019-07-26T06:03:46Z

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	==The Collapse==		==The Collapse==

	The Drudges were treated harshly as serfs, and the first sign of the collapse of the Golden Age, approximately 50,000 BT, was a massive uprising that depleted the workforce to such an extent that it halted agriculture and basic city services. Instead of dismantling the caste system, the Thelassians doubled down on ~~the~~ it and in partnership with the Myrmidons imposed harsher penalties for disobedience. Loyal Drudges were gifted larger plots of reef for personal use and other perks, thus ensuring obedient lineages.		The Drudges were treated harshly as serfs, and the first sign of the collapse of the Golden Age, approximately 50,000 BT, was a massive uprising that depleted the workforce to such an extent that it halted agriculture and basic city services. Instead of dismantling the caste system, the Thelassians doubled down on it and in partnership with the Myrmidons imposed harsher penalties for disobedience. Loyal Drudges were gifted larger plots of reef for personal use and other perks, thus ensuring obedient lineages.

	Oneidhae society after the uprising was never as stable as it once was, with small Drudge uprisings occurring in outer enclaves over the centuries. The occasional periods of growth rarely lasted a millennia. Their religion experienced rifts with starker divisions between ~~worshippers~~ of Enterelos and Cephakos. Factions that were devoted to Javanikrys and completely at odds with civilized Oneidhae life emerged and encouraged instability. These factions are nomadic and hard to root out, thus they still cause problems for enclaves in the outer reaches of Tuil Sianaach. Another faction, composed mostly of Myrmidons, demanded a stricter, more brutal way of life, and were driven out of the South Sea by high-powered magic wielding Thelassians, all the way to the other side of globe near Mwayambi. As unity amongst Oneidhae dissolved and Tuil Sianaach no longer became the center of merfolk life, cultural development and progress slowed. Meanwhile, surfacers formed bustling city-states and nations with advancements in naval technology.		Oneidhae society after the uprising was never as stable as it once was, with small Drudge uprisings occurring in outer enclaves over the centuries. The occasional periods of growth rarely lasted a millennia. Their religion experienced rifts with starker divisions between worshipers of Enterelos and Cephakos. Factions that were devoted to Javanikrys and completely at odds with civilized Oneidhae life emerged and encouraged instability. These factions are nomadic and hard to root out, thus they still cause problems for enclaves in the outer reaches of Tuil Sianaach. Another faction, composed mostly of Myrmidons, demanded a stricter, more brutal way of life, and were driven out of the South Sea by high-powered magic wielding Thelassians - all the way to the other side of globe near Mwayambi. As unity amongst Oneidhae dissolved and Tuil Sianaach no longer became the center of merfolk life, cultural development and progress slowed. Meanwhile, surfacers formed bustling city-states and nations with advancements in naval technology.

	Fionn ancestry during this time is murky and rumored to have started after wayfinding explorers found the islands within Tuil Sianaach. Some say the humans gradually adapted to the environment with larger lungs, hands, and feet. Others claim intermingling happened between humans and Oneidhae that over time became the Fionn. As the Golden Age of the Oneidhae came to an end, conflicts between the Fionn and differing merfolk factions occurred but the majority of Oneidhae accepted the presence of the Fionn as benign.		Fionn ancestry during this time is murky and rumored to have started after wayfinding explorers found the islands within Tuil Sianaach. Some say the humans gradually adapted to the environment with larger lungs, hands, and feet. Others claim intermingling happened between humans and Oneidhae that over time became the Fionn. As the Golden Age of the Oneidhae came to an end, conflicts between the Fionn and differing merfolk factions occurred but the majority of Oneidhae accepted the presence of the Fionn as benign.

	More humans settled on what was soon to be [[Pentland]]. At first, there was scarce interaction between the Fionn and Oneidhae and proto-Pentlanders. Once Pentland was officially established and their naval force intensified, they quickly conquered the surrounding islands of Arrantiada and Tuil Sianaach. The Fionn experienced the worst of the conflict, as Pentland surrounded the crescent isle with warships. Everything came to a head over a century ago when a fishing vessel discovered the resources underwater. The Oneidhae kept out of these affairs and considered the conflict between Fionn and Pentland a surfacer's problem, until Pentland dredged for resources in a way that was destroying reefs. Fionn were made to dive for treasure, then after the discovery of diamonds an unknown party sabotaged Pentlander ships. It's still unknown who the saboteurs were, but ~~the~~ rumors say it was a party of Fionn and Oneidhae.		More humans settled on what was soon to be [[Pentland]]. At first, there was scarce interaction between the Fionn and Oneidhae and proto-Pentlanders. Once Pentland was officially established and their naval force intensified, they quickly conquered the surrounding islands of Arrantiada and Tuil Sianaach. The Fionn experienced the worst of the conflict, as Pentland surrounded the crescent isle with warships. Everything came to a head over a century ago when a fishing vessel discovered the resources underwater. The Oneidhae kept out of these affairs and considered the conflict between Fionn and Pentland a surfacer's problem, until Pentland dredged for resources in a way that was destroying reefs. Fionn were made to dive for treasure, then after the discovery of diamonds an unknown party sabotaged Pentlander ships. It's still unknown who the saboteurs were, but rumors say it was a party of Fionn and Oneidhae.

	Pentland's great naval vessels built from Thymvraan oak had a hard time defending against usurpers from below. The Imperials introduced a new weapon to the battle field, a biological weapon that could poison the reefs and surrounding water. It wasn't until a demonstration of this weapon that the Oneidhae finally submitted and allowed Tuil Sianaach and the reefs to be colonized by Pentland. This reef still bears the scars of destruction, though Imperials deny the event ever occurred.		Pentland's great naval vessels built from Thymvraan oak had a hard time defending against usurpers from below. The Imperials introduced a new weapon to the battle field to counter underwater attacks - a biological weapon that could poison the reefs and surrounding water. It wasn't until a demonstration of this weapon that the Oneidhae finally submitted and allowed Tuil Sianaach and the reefs to be colonized by Pentland. This reef still bears the scars of destruction, though Imperials deny the event ever occurred.

	==Renewal==		==Renewal==
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	The Inumidans are the most recent caste. While the reefs experienced a rise and collapse, merfolk of the deep led a very different life based on self-discipline and the intensive study of nature, philosophy, and the arcane. Interactions between those in higher waters and those in the deep were scarce during the Golden Age of the Oneidhae, but a group of Thelassians began corresponding with deep sea merfolk as instabilities increased. Initially, the Thelassians exchanged information and ideas intermixed with pleas to join Tuil Sianaach society to build great cities. The Inumidans hesitated until Pentland demonstrated their poisonous weaponry, which constituted a threat to all aquatic life. It took careful deliberation, but the Inumidans felt it was now their calling to help advance and protect Oneidhae society.		The Inumidans are the most recent caste. While the reefs experienced a rise and collapse, merfolk of the deep led a very different life based on self-discipline and the intensive study of nature, philosophy, and the arcane. Interactions between those in higher waters and those in the deep were scarce during the Golden Age of the Oneidhae, but a group of Thelassians began corresponding with deep sea merfolk as instabilities increased. Initially, the Thelassians exchanged information and ideas intermixed with pleas to join Tuil Sianaach society to build great cities. The Inumidans hesitated until Pentland demonstrated their poisonous weaponry, which constituted a threat to all aquatic life. It took careful deliberation, but the Inumidans felt it was now their calling to help advance and protect Oneidhae society.

	The Thelassians proclaimed the new caste was second tier in society, though technically Inumidans bear a similar plane of influence and power as Myrmidons. Inumidans have many important roles in cities. They lack some of the social skills that Thelassians have, but still act as advisors and occasionally diplomats. A university dedicated to science and engineering was established in the new deep sea city of Iumentorpolis. There, too deep for Pentlanders to ever reach, they've enhanced the abilities to artificially cultivate corals and created stronger weapons and regenerative armor. The deep sea thermal vents are utilized as forges where new metal alloys ~~are currently~~ developed. For now, most of their research is going towards what may ultimately be a war with Pentland, but many Inumidans are eager to plan and develop new, gleaming cities from the fruits of their research.		The Thelassians proclaimed the new caste was second tier in society, though technically Inumidans bear a similar plane of influence and power as Myrmidons. Inumidans have many important roles in cities. They lack some of the social skills that Thelassians have, but still act as advisors and occasionally diplomats. A university dedicated to science and engineering was established in the new deep sea city of Iumentorpolis. There, too deep for Pentlanders to ever reach, they've enhanced the abilities to artificially cultivate corals and created stronger weapons and regenerative armor. The deep sea thermal vents are utilized as forges where new metal alloys werre developed. For now, most of their research is going towards what may ultimately be a war with Pentland, but many Inumidans are eager to plan and develop new gleaming cities from the fruits of their research.

	Within the last five decades, a number of merfolk have been born with unique features such as more limbs or eyes than normal or as conjoined twins. Rather than see these features as defects, the Oneidhae placed them on a pedestal. They possess greater magical abilities than other Oneidhae. These unique merfolk are at the top of Thelassian Oneidhae society regardless of the caste they were born in. Though there are political struggles as these merfolk vie for power within the Thelassian caste, ultimately they are providing the Oneidhae with visions of a future where they have control of their ancestral home.		Within the last five decades, a number of merfolk have been born with unique features such as more limbs or eyes than normal or as conjoined twins. Rather than see these features as defects, the Oneidhae placed them on a pedestal. They possess greater magical abilities than other Oneidhae. These unique merfolk are at the top of Thelassian Oneidhae society regardless of the caste they were born in. Though there are political struggles as these merfolk vie for power within the Thelassian caste, ultimately they are providing the Oneidhae with visions of a future where they have control of their ancestral home.

Gudrun at 02:04, 1 July 2019

2019-07-01T02:04:12Z

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	- Those who treat the brothers as equals are the bridge between the two. They live in small enclaves composed of permanent structures and public works, but much of their life is tied to the ebb and flow of nature.		- Those who treat the brothers as equals are the bridge between the two. They live in small enclaves composed of permanent structures and public works, but much of their life is tied to the ebb and flow of nature.

	'''Colene''', the Goddess of Spirit Realm, also known as Giant Octopus Mother, was created by Javanikrys from two tentacles ripped off from each brother during a fight. She represents neutral forces within nature. Upon witnessing the plight of merfolk spirits trapped in their corporeal bodies, she created a realm in which to tend to them after their corpses were consumed by Iumentorid's hordes. The spirit realm is a clutch of eggs, created after the emergence of mortal merfolk so that their spirits had a place to rest. Her perpetual delicate care of the egg clutch is seen as an act of true altruism, and some merfolk factions make it a tenant to follow her example. Merfolk factions that do this tend to value Enterolos more or the brothers as equals. ~~Javankrys~~ cultists still see Colene as the keeper of their souls, but that ~~Javankrys~~ ultimately decides who does or doesn't reach the spirit realm via Iumentorid, who they believe was created by the elder goddess. To them, any merfolk that associates with land dwellers is cursed to remain trapped in their lifeless corpses.		'''Colene''', the Goddess of Spirit Realm, also known as Giant Octopus Mother, was created by Javanikrys from two tentacles ripped off from each brother during a fight. She represents neutral forces within nature. Upon witnessing the plight of merfolk spirits trapped in their corporeal bodies, she created a realm in which to tend to them after their corpses were consumed by Iumentorid's hordes. The spirit realm is a clutch of eggs, created after the emergence of mortal merfolk so that their spirits had a place to rest. Her perpetual delicate care of the egg clutch is seen as an act of true altruism, and some merfolk factions make it a tenant to follow her example. Merfolk factions that do this tend to value Enterolos more or the brothers as equals. Javanikrys cultists still see Colene as the keeper of their souls, but that Javanikrys ultimately decides who does or doesn't reach the spirit realm via Iumentorid, who they believe was created by the elder goddess. To them, any merfolk that associates with land dwellers is cursed to remain trapped in their lifeless corpses.

	'''Iumentorid''', the Ghost Whale God of the Dead rules the underworld, the Abyssal Realm, and glides over the deep sea terrain with hordes of ghost sharks, goblin sharks, ratfish formed from chunks of Iumentorid's rotten flesh. These hordes eat the dead that falls to the ocean floor in order for their spirit to be freed of their corporeal body. He is said to have been created by Colene or Javanikrys from a dead whale. Prior to Iumentorid's creation, merfolk corpses never decomposed, thus their spirits never freed. The only way to return to the spirit realm is by having merfolk send their corpses to the Abyssal Realm. Merfolk that are seen as outcasts, betrayers, or undesirables are often denied this burial by keeping their corpses from ever sinking into the abyss. This would be the merfolk version of hell.		'''Iumentorid''', the Ghost Whale God of the Dead rules the underworld, the Abyssal Realm, and glides over the deep sea terrain with hordes of ghost sharks, goblin sharks, ratfish formed from chunks of Iumentorid's rotten flesh. These hordes eat the dead that falls to the ocean floor in order for their spirit to be freed of their corporeal body. He is said to have been created by Colene or Javanikrys from a dead whale. Prior to Iumentorid's creation, merfolk corpses never decomposed, thus their spirits never freed. The only way to return to the spirit realm is by having merfolk send their corpses to the Abyssal Realm. Merfolk that are seen as outcasts, betrayers, or undesirables are often denied this burial by keeping their corpses from ever sinking into the abyss. This would be the merfolk version of hell.

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	The Oneidhae worship a pantheon of gods and demigods. General themes of Order, Chaos, and Neutrality, Good and Evil, are present within their religion. The religion is as stratified as their caste system, with Oneidhae positioned near the bottom of the pyramid. The gods are: Elder Goddess Javanikrys, God of Order Enterolos, God of Chaos Cephakos, Goddess of the Spirit Realm Colene, God of Death Iumentorid. Javanikrys is worshipped as the primary goddess of all life, who created the realm of the sea. Brothers Enterolos and Cephakos were created by Javanikrys from pure whimsy, but they control the balance of the world and keep each other in check. Colene was created from the combined tentacles of Enterolos and Cephakos. She reigns over the spirit realm, which is an ever growing cluster of eggs.		The Oneidhae worship a pantheon of gods and demigods. General themes of Order, Chaos, and Neutrality, Good and Evil, are present within their religion. The religion is as stratified as their caste system, with Oneidhae positioned near the bottom of the pyramid. The gods are: Elder Goddess Javanikrys, God of Order Enterolos, God of Chaos Cephakos, Goddess of the Spirit Realm Colene, God of Death Iumentorid. Javanikrys is worshipped as the primary goddess of all life, who created the realm of the sea. Brothers Enterolos and Cephakos were created by Javanikrys from pure whimsy, but they control the balance of the world and keep each other in check. Colene was created from the combined tentacles of Enterolos and Cephakos. She reigns over the spirit realm, which is an ever growing cluster of eggs.

	Beneath these gods are demigods created when the three siblings copulated with various lesser sea creatures. The merfolk originated from the demigods as they copulated ~~amongst~~ themselves until their sacred lineage became thinner and thinner. Thus, higher caste Oneidhae are said to be closer to sacred.		Beneath these gods are demigods created when the three siblings copulated with various lesser sea creatures. The merfolk originated from the demigods as they copulated among themselves until their sacred lineage became thinner and thinner. Thus, higher caste Oneidhae are said to be closer to sacred.

	==Greater Deities==		==Greater Deities==

	The elder goddess, '''Javanikrys''', is ~~worshipped~~ by all in private with home altars or openly by cultists. Javanikrys, a humanoid octopus of immense magnitude, is the mother of the gods, Enterolos, Cephakos, and Colene, and creator of the oceans and lesser aquatic plants and animals. Iumentorid is believed by her most fervent ~~worshippers~~ to be one of her offspring, as well. She only created these three or four major deities then left her children to their own devices. She is a terrifying goddess of fickle whims. The worst natural catastrophes: mega cyclones, abyssal earthquakes, undersea volcano eruptions, are said to be caused by her fury. She has a deep hatred for land dwellers, since many of them were created in her primordial ocean soup but betrayed her to walk on land ~~and~~ have since forgotten her existence and ~~later~~ pillage the resources she's created.		The elder goddess, '''Javanikrys''', is worshiped by all in private with home altars or openly by cultists. Javanikrys, a humanoid octopus of immense magnitude, is the mother of the gods, Enterolos, Cephakos, and Colene, and creator of the oceans and lesser aquatic plants and animals. Iumentorid is believed by her most fervent worshipers to be one of her offspring, as well. She only created these three or four major deities then left her children to their own devices. She is a terrifying goddess of fickle whims. The worst natural catastrophes: mega cyclones, abyssal earthquakes, undersea volcano eruptions, are said to be caused by her fury. She has a deep hatred for land dwellers, since many of them were created in her primordial ocean soup but betrayed her to walk on land. Land dwellers have since forgotten her existence and instead pillage the resources she's created.

	Merfolk fear and respect her as the creator of their realm, but they understand Javanikrys holds no favor over the merfolk as they were tangentially created from her whim to create the gods. Merfolk that hold severe hatred toward land dwellers believe they have her favor, however, and dedicate their raids to her. Splits between merfolk factions occurred over the worship of Javanikrys as more merfolk started emulating the God of Order and/or the Goddess of the Spirit Realm, who are seen as gentler more approachable deities.		Merfolk fear and respect her as the creator of their realm, but they understand Javanikrys holds no favor over the merfolk as they were tangentially created from her whim to create the gods. Merfolk that hold severe hatred toward land dwellers believe they have her favor, however, and dedicate their raids to her. Splits between merfolk factions occurred over the worship of Javanikrys as more merfolk started emulating the God of Order and/or the Goddess of the Spirit Realm, who are seen as gentler and more approachable deities.

	'''Enterolos''', God of Order, and '''Cephakos''', God of Chaos, are giant humanoid octopus brothers that represent a duality. They were sculpted from volcanic rocks by their mother, Javanikrys, then instructed that only one may rule over the profane realm. Thus, a bitter rivalry began. The two are constantly battling with each other, which can cause giant cyclones over the ocean as anger rises. The two occasionally team up against their mother when her whims effect something that the brothers are mutually invested in. Some merfolk factions worship one brother over the other. Other factions see the two as providing a balance in life. When one brother starts to get too powerful, the other checks him. Depending on this take, a merfolk faction may act as a lawful, neutral, or chaotic entity with scales tipped towards good or evil.		'''Enterolos''', God of Order, and '''Cephakos''', God of Chaos, are giant humanoid octopus brothers that represent a duality. They were sculpted from volcanic rocks by their mother, Javanikrys, then instructed that only one may rule over the profane realm. Thus, a bitter rivalry began. The two are constantly battling with each other, which can cause giant cyclones over the ocean as anger rises. The two occasionally team up against their mother when her whims effect something that the brothers are mutually invested in. Some merfolk factions worship one brother over the other. Other factions see the two as providing a balance in life. When one brother starts to get too powerful, the other checks him. Depending on this take, a merfolk faction may act as a lawful, neutral, or chaotic entity with scales tipped towards good or evil.
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	- Worship of Enterolos creates societies that strictly adhere to laws and protocols. Cities created by those who publicly espouse the God of Order are engineered with the newest merfolk technologies. Merfolk-made reefs, bioluminescent lighting, elaborate kelp gardens, and multi-tiered structures are common features.		- Worship of Enterolos creates societies that strictly adhere to laws and protocols. Cities created by those who publicly espouse the God of Order are engineered with the newest merfolk technologies. Merfolk-made reefs, bioluminescent lighting, elaborate kelp gardens, and multi-tiered structures are common features.

	- Worship of Cephakos creates unpredictable and nomadic societies. Structures tend to be impermanent and flimsy, tools are more primitive, and life is determined on a day-to-day, sometimes hour-by-hour, basis. These merfolk are volatile, act on impulses, and/or will do things just to see what happens potentially at the expense of others.		- Worship of Cephakos creates unpredictable and nomadic societies. Structures tend to be impermanent and flimsy, tools are more primitive, and life is determined on a day-to-day, sometimes hour-by-hour, basis. These merfolk are volatile, act on impulses, and/or will do things just to see what happens - potentially at the expense of others.

	- Those who treat the brothers as equals are the bridge between the two. They live in small enclaves composed of permanent structures and public works, but much of their life is tied to the ebb and flow of nature.		- Those who treat the brothers as equals are the bridge between the two. They live in small enclaves composed of permanent structures and public works, but much of their life is tied to the ebb and flow of nature.

	'''Colene''', the Goddess of Spirit Realm, also known as Giant Octopus Mother, was created by Javanikrys from two tentacles ripped off from each brother during a fight. She represents neutral forces within nature. Upon witnessing the plight of merfolk spirits trapped in their corporeal bodies, she created a realm in which to tend to them after their corpses were consumed by Iumentorid's hordes. The spirit realm is a clutch of eggs, created after the emergence of mortal merfolk so that their spirits had a place to rest. Her perpetual delicate care of the egg clutch is seen as an act of true altruism, and some merfolk factions make it a tenant to follow her example. Merfolk factions that do this tend to value Enterolos more or the brothers as equals. Javanikrys cultists still see Colene as the keeper of their souls, but that Javanikrys ultimately decides who does or doesn't reach the spirit realm via Iumentorid, who they believe was created by the elder goddess. To them, any merfolk that associates with land dwellers is cursed to remain trapped in their lifeless corpses.		'''Colene''', the Goddess of Spirit Realm, also known as Giant Octopus Mother, was created by Javanikrys from two tentacles ripped off from each brother during a fight. She represents neutral forces within nature. Upon witnessing the plight of merfolk spirits trapped in their corporeal bodies, she created a realm in which to tend to them after their corpses were consumed by Iumentorid's hordes. The spirit realm is a clutch of eggs, created after the emergence of mortal merfolk so that their spirits had a place to rest. Her perpetual delicate care of the egg clutch is seen as an act of true altruism, and some merfolk factions make it a tenant to follow her example. Merfolk factions that do this tend to value Enterolos more or the brothers as equals. Javanikrys cultists still see Colene as the keeper of their souls, but that Javanikrys ultimately decides who does or doesn't reach the spirit realm via Iumentorid - who they believe was created by the elder goddess. To them, any merfolk that associates with land dwellers is cursed to remain trapped in their lifeless corpses.

	'''Iumentorid''', the Ghost Whale God of the Dead rules the underworld, the Abyssal Realm, and glides over the deep sea terrain with hordes of ghost sharks, goblin sharks, ratfish formed from chunks of Iumentorid's rotten flesh. These hordes eat the dead that falls to the ocean floor in order for their spirit to be freed of their corporeal ~~body~~. He is said to have been created by Colene or Javanikrys from a dead whale. Prior to Iumentorid's creation, merfolk corpses never decomposed, thus their spirits never freed. The only way to return to the spirit realm is by having merfolk send their corpses to the Abyssal Realm. Merfolk that are seen as outcasts, betrayers, or undesirables are often denied this burial by keeping their corpses from ever sinking into the abyss. This would be the merfolk version of hell.		'''Iumentorid''', the Ghost Whale God of the Dead rules the underworld, the Abyssal Realm, and glides over the deep sea terrain with hordes of ghost sharks, goblin sharks, ratfish all formed from chunks of Iumentorid's rotten flesh. These hordes eat the dead that falls to the ocean floor in order for their spirit to be freed from their corporeal bodies. He is said to have been created by Colene or Javanikrys from a dead whale. Prior to Iumentorid's creation, merfolk corpses never decomposed, thus their spirits never freed. The only way to return to the spirit realm is by having merfolk send their corpses to the Abyssal Realm. Merfolk that are seen as outcasts, betrayers, or undesirables are often denied this burial by keeping their corpses from ever sinking into the abyss. This would be the merfolk version of hell.

	All factions worship the God of the Dead and hope to be eaten by his hordes when they die so their spirits may be released. Once every such and such double full moon, Iumentorid rises from the abyss, leading his hordes along with him. It's said that it's a bad omen if a living creature witnesses Iumentorid, and that they'll be joining him soon. This god is neutral and treats all corpses the same. Javanikrys cultists would say that she decides who Iumentorid brings back to the spirit realm.		All factions worship the God of the Dead and hope to be eaten by his hordes when they die so their spirits may be released. Once every such and such double full moon, Iumentorid rises from the abyss, leading his hordes along with him. It's said that it's a bad omen if a living creature witnesses Iumentorid, and that they'll be joining him soon. This god is neutral and treats all corpses the same. Javanikrys cultists would say that she decides who Iumentorid brings back to the spirit realm.
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	Beneath the gods is a menagerie of lesser gods of the deep. They're the offspring of the gods and profane creatures of the oceans. These are colossal versions of creatures normally found in the oceans. Different clusters of merfolk might consider one of the lesser gods as a "house deity" that has more of an impact on their day-to-day lives than the upper echelon deities.		Beneath the gods is a menagerie of lesser gods of the deep. They're the offspring of the gods and profane creatures of the oceans. These are colossal versions of creatures normally found in the oceans. Different clusters of merfolk might consider one of the lesser gods as a "house deity" that has more of an impact on their day-to-day lives than the upper echelon deities.

	Merfolk were ~~then~~ created by the lesser gods as they propagated ~~amongst~~ themselves until only a faint trace of sacred lineage was left. This is also the basis for the caste system. Parentage determines one's abilities and position at birth, and the higher the caste you're born into, the closer to the gods and demigods you are. Caste is determined by the matron of the family		Merfolk were created by the lesser gods as they propagated among themselves until only a faint trace of sacred lineage was left. This is also the basis for the caste system. Parentage determines one's abilities and position at birth, and the higher the caste you're born into, the closer to the gods and demigods you are. Caste is determined by the matron of the family

	Merfolk born with an excess of limbs or conjoined are thought to sit just below the demigods and above normal merfolk. It's believed their spirit was touched by a tentacle of a god when they were created. Being born with strange birth defects and deformities overrides the caste system.		Merfolk born with an excess of limbs or conjoined are thought to sit just below the demigods and above normal merfolk. It's believed their spirit was touched by a tentacle of a god when they were created. Being born with strange birth defects and deformities overrides the caste system.
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	==Use of Puffer Fish==		==Use of Puffer Fish==

	'''Puffer Fish''' contain a poison that is deadly to most species, but some Oneidhae have developed immunities to environmental toxins via specialized organs similar to high-powered kidneys. The toxin from this fish creates a euphoria-like state and is known to induce spiritual visions, thus it's considered an important part of religious rites and practices. The puffer fish remains alive in the process usually, with its back "kissed" to ingest the toxin via mouth, and is kept as a pet by many Oneidhae. Deeply superstitious Oneidhae fear ingesting the toxin from a dead puffer fish leads to terrible visions that bring calamity, but that doesn't mean some Oneidhae don't try it anyway.		'''Puffer Fish''' contain a poison that is deadly to most species, but some Oneidhae have developed immunities to environmental toxins via specialized organs similar to high-powered kidneys. The toxin from this fish creates a euphoria-like state and is known to induce spiritual visions, thus it's considered an important part of religious rites and practices. The puffer fish remains alive in the process usually, with its back "kissed" to ingest the toxin via mouth, and is kept as a pet by many Oneidhae. Deeply superstitious Oneidhae fear that ingesting the toxin from a dead puffer fish leads to terrible visions that bring calamity, but that doesn't mean some Oneidhae don't try it anyway.

	=Magic=		=Magic=

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	'''Thelassians''':		'''Thelassians''':

	'''Ullisa''': First recorded ruler. Hers is the first written account of the caste system, with early justifications for stratifying society based on physiological differences and that good breeding is everything when it came to rights of authority.		''Ullisa'': First recorded ruler. Hers is the first written account of the caste system, with early justifications for stratifying society based on physiological differences and that good breeding is everything when it came to rights of authority.

	'''Nada''': Ruler during the first Drudge Uprising that cost the lives of many of the lowest caste. Harsh authoritarian who, with the support of Myrmidons, carried out brutal public executions of defectors and massacred entire family lines of Drudges. Eventually, as all of Oneidhae society		''Nada'': Ruler during the first Drudge Uprising that cost the lives of many of the lowest caste. Harsh authoritarian who, with the support of Myrmidons, carried out brutal public executions of defectors and massacred entire family lines of Drudges. Eventually, as all of Oneidhae society
	suffered from a lack of laborers, fellow Thelassians revolted and assassinated Nada.		suffered from a lack of laborers, fellow Thelassians revolted and assassinated Nada.

	'''Nys''': Chosen ruler after Nada. She, along with a new council, rewarded loyalty amongst Drudges by giving them property in nearly built enclaves in the outskirts of Tuil Sianaach. The number of uprisings fell dramatically, while simultaneously the Drudges were split into smaller groups throughout the reefs, thus making the lowest caste easier to control as well. She also founded the Pelagiad college which taught skilled trades, the arts, history, and a few tightly regulated liberal sciences.		''Nys'': Chosen ruler after Nada. She, along with a new council, rewarded loyalty amongst Drudges by giving them property in nearly built enclaves in the outskirts of Tuil Sianaach. The number of uprisings fell dramatically, while simultaneously the Drudges were split into smaller groups throughout the reefs, thus making the lowest caste easier to control as well. She also founded the Pelagiad college which taught skilled trades, the arts, history, and a few tightly regulated liberal sciences.

	'''Nerys''': Ruler during the rise of Pentland as a nation and subsequently when the Imperials claimed Tuil Sianaach as a colony. She's credited with convincing the Inumidans to join Oneidhae society.		''Nerys'': Ruler during the rise of Pentland as a nation and subsequently when the Imperials claimed Tuil Sianaach as a colony. She's credited with convincing the Inumidans to join Oneidhae society.

	'''Una''': The first Oneidhae to be born with strange defects that were ultimately seen as gifts from the gods, since she had incredible latent magical abilities. The timing of her birth came 20 years after Tuil Sianaach was colonized and a decade after the Inumidans joined society. Such births are still a rarity, though the number of unique births has risen within the last five decades.		''Una'': The first Oneidhae to be born with strange defects that were ultimately seen as gifts from the gods, since she had incredible latent magical abilities. The timing of her birth came 20 years after Tuil Sianaach was colonized and a decade after the Inumidans joined society. Such births are still a rarity, though the number of unique births has risen within the last five decades.

	'''Inumidans''':		'''Inumidans''':

	'''Ismene''': Scientist who innovated reef cultivation and growing. Her research led to super hardened corals used today for weaponry and armor.		''Ismene'': Scientist who innovated reef cultivation and growing. Her research led to super hardened corals used today for weaponry and armor.

	'''Omphaelos''': Founded the Inumidan University of Science and Engineering. He was a skilled architect as well.		''Omphaelos'': Founded the Inumidan University of Science and Engineering. He was a skilled architect as well.

	'''Myrmidons''':		'''Myrmidons''':

	'''Ypsilantes''': Legendary warrior who used cunning to thwart enemies.		''Ypsilantes'': Legendary warrior who used cunning to thwart enemies.

	=Society and People=		=Society and People=