Merfolk of the Straits

Native to the Irithai since time uncounted, the Merfolk were here long before sails first scarred their waves. They were the first to extend hands — and fins — in peace when the Kinfolk settled Velthamar, teaching them how to respect the sea’s moods rather than fight them. To this day, Merfolk handle most negotiations with the Kinfolk, serving as steady mediators between land and water, storm and shore.

Population Centers

• Based in Thalassyn, their abyssal capital carved into a deep crater below Velthamar.

• Coral spires and bioluminescent veins light the dark waters like a sunken cathedral. Smaller pods scatter across reefs, trenches, and kelp forests.

Lifestyle

• Graceful, proud, and pragmatic.

• They farm kelp, herd abyssal beasts, craft jewelry and tools from pearl, coral, and leviathan bone — and fiercely guard the sea’s most precious resources from overharvest and desecration.

• Life in the depths is beautiful — and unforgiving.

Cultural Structure

• Matriarchal and community-rooted.

• The ocean is their mother, and women rule as her stewards. The Tide Matron of the Abyss rises by respect, not decree, chosen by the quiet will of the sea.

• Pod-mothers lead locally. Outsiders earn courtesy — but never full trust without proving themselves to the deep.

Life Expectancy

• 120–160 years, with rare elders reaching 200. Many who dive too far never return.

Languages

• Irithai Common: For trade and diplomacy.

• Aquan: Native, fluid, alien.

• Blackwake: Spoken by wreck-divers and smugglers with pirate ties.