Merfolk
Merfolk are the only sentient species in Elema with fully underwater civilizations. Often described as half-human, half-fish, they have built thriving societies beneath the sea—complete with complex magical systems and technological innovations on par with anything found on land.
While they are famous for their graceful swimming and enchanting voices, Merfolk also carry a wide range of attitudes toward surface dwellers. Some welcome contact, others remain wary. If you’re lucky enough to speak with one, tread carefully—earn their respect, and you may hear music unlike anything above the waves.
While they are famous for their graceful swimming and enchanting voices, Merfolk also carry a wide range of attitudes toward surface dwellers. Some welcome contact, others remain wary. If you’re lucky enough to speak with one, tread carefully—earn their respect, and you may hear music unlike anything above the waves.
by Valcin (Marc Zipper)
Basic Information
Anatomy
Merfolk are a tailed, aquatic species with a humanoid upper body and a fish-like lower half. They have a round skull, two rounded and streamlined ears, and two eyes with circular pupils and irises, along with a nose and mouth. Each has two arms and ten fingers, with roughly half the population exhibiting webbing between the fingers. From the waist up, Merfolk resemble other humanoid sentients, often possessing fine body hair and long, flowing hair on their heads. Below the waist, their skin transitions into shimmering scales, forming a powerful and flexible tail that propels them gracefully through the water.
Natural Magic
Merfolk are naturally aligned with Water Magic, and about 85% use it instinctively. Their weakness lies in Wind Magic, which can disrupt currents and harm their aquatic systemsBiological Traits
Merflok
Type
Sentient (Merflok)
Ability Score Modifier
Dex+2 Int +2 Str-2
Size
medium
Speed
Walk 20ft Swim 40ft
Language
Merfolk begins speaking Worldest "Common" and merfolk from their kingdom. Merfolk with high Intelligence scores can choose any languages they want (except secret languages, such as Druidic).
- Dark Vision: Merfolk has dark vision just as far in the dark as they do in the light.
- Amphibious: Merfolk are amphibious, but prefer not to spend long periods out of the water. They can breathe both air and water.
- Seasinger The beautiful voices of the merfolk are legendary. A seasinger gains a +2 racial bonus on Perform(sing) checks and a +1 racial bonus to the save DC of language-dependent spells
- Armor: Merfolk has a +2 natural armor bonus.
- Gift of Water 50% Damage resistance from magical water and 50% weakness damage from magical Wind
Genetics and Reproduction
Merfolk reproduce through male-female pairing. After a 9-month gestation, a child is born. Fertility typically ends around age 235.
Growth Rate & Stages
- Merfolk are considered infants between the ages of zero to six, during which time they were completely dependent on their parents for food and care. They gradually pick up mobility and world awareness.
- The next stage is kids who learn, play, and grow between the ages of 7 to 14. Although kids are not as dependent on their parents at this point, they are still present to meet the majority of their needs. However, young kids are inquisitive and beginning to understand others and themselves. People have a saying that a young child always hears and retains. If you want to see all type water game Merfolk chirdren and the one who now how fun.
- Between the ages of 14 to 34, their bodies begin to evolve and develop into adults, which is referred to as the teenage years. Their physical body begins to gain figure, height, weight, and muscles. In most situations, this is also where natural magic develops. In most circumstances, they will also begin to establish their identity and become less reliant on their parents.
- From the ages of 35 to 259, they are in their adulthood, their bodies have matured, and they have a good sense of what their natural magic will do. It will continue to develop as they age, but in most cases, it has a set of talents.
- From 260 to roughly 333 years of age, they are elders; their bodies have gradually begun to slow down and become weaker, as have their magical talents if they are not kept up with. Other people regard them as wise because they have lived a lengthy life for a Merfolk. This is the Merfolk life cycle.
Ecology and Habitats
Merfolk thrive deep under the sea, with most choosing to build cities on the ocean floor. Coral towers, shell-crafted dwellings, and bioluminescent infrastructure are common. Some smaller tribes settle in reef systems or near thermal vents.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Merfolk are omnivores with low metabolisms, and they traditionally consume a large amount of raw food. However, in the modern age, they have begun developing culinary techniques such as oil-based preparation and steam-cooking, using advanced technologies that mimic natural thermal vents or pressure pockets found in the ocean.
Additional Information
Average Intelligence
Merfolk are intellectually equal to land-dwelling sentients. Their underwater environment has led them to develop unique technologies and magical practices. Music and art are essential to their culture, and they often measure intelligence not just by logic—but also by creativity and emotional expression.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
- Vision: Sharp up to 2 miles on land. In water, enhanced by powerful retinal rods and a tapetum lucidum, granting strong night and deep-sea vision.
- Hearing: 10 Hz – 23 kHz. Excellent underwater; adapted to detect rapid changes in sound pressure and movement.
- Smell: Effective on land, limited underwater due to diffusion.
- Touch: Fine skin sensitivity, especially along the lateral line running down the torso and tail.
- Taste: Full range of sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami. Sensitive to minerals and water-borne flavor notes.
Lifespan
330 years
Average Height
6"5 to 8 from tail to head
Average Weight
on land 150 to 250
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
- Scales: Vary in shades of green, blue, teal, and yellow, sometimes with iridescent patterns.
- Upper Body (Skin): Ranges from pale pink to olive, brown, or dark black.
- Hair & Eyes: Any natural or magical color, often bright or gem-like underwater.
Related Organizations
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