Solstice - User contributions [en]

Echo

2026-06-18T02:47:00Z

MathNerd314: Filled out top table

{{UnderConstruction}}
{{Character
| name = SUBJECT FILE #0000000: ECHO
| image = Placeholder.png

| title = Founder and Head Archivist, Archive of the Unknowable
| aliases = The Archivist, Boss (Artemesia)
| species = Abyssal
| pronouns = she/they

| age = Unknown
| height = 7'6"... usually.
| birthday = Unknown
| deathday = N/A
| features = Glowing patterns resembling eyes

| homeworld = Pelagia
| affiliation = Archive of the Unknowable
| status = Alive
| abilities = Many things learned from the Archive over the years...

| kin = None
| marital = None

| minecraft = KyloRegionz
| discord = sparcturus (mathnerd314)
}}

<blockquote>
''"If your character has something cool to say, add it here." — Character Name''
</blockquote>

A short introductory blurb about your character goes here. This should briefly explain who they are, what role they play in the story, and any key traits that define them!

Think of this section as a way to give readers a quick understanding of your character before they read the full page.

== How to Use This Template ==

This page is a '''template and guide'''. Do not directly edit this page!!

To create your own character page:
* Copy the url of this page
* Replace "Character_Template_Page" with your character's name
* You will be brought to the new page, which has not been created yet. Click "edit source"
* Copy this page’s contents from the source editor on this page
* Paste it into the new page and edit there

The Visual Editor can be used afterwards for easier editing, but the source editor is recommended for initial setup to copy all the formatting!

If this page was edited accidentally, please tell someone so it can be restored. Sharky periodically takes backups of the wiki. Mistakes happen.

Ensure the new page is properly categorized under '''Characters'''.

== Appearance ==
While you might think an image is enough to show what your character looks like, it helps enormously to describe your vision in writing as well. This helps a lot with context so artists seeking to draw your character can do so accurately.

== History ==

Describe your character’s background prior to arriving on Locus Astra.

Think to include...
* Origin story
* Key life events
* Motivations
* Personality development

This section is meant to provide 'out-of-character context (OOC-friendly lore explanation)' so other users can understand your character’s role in the world. You don't have to give the same level of detail as you did in your whitelist ticket, but share whatever you want your fellow players to know if they read about your character!

You may want to break up this section into further subheadings, like below:

=== Early Life ===
Childhood and upbringing.

=== Inciting Event/Turning Point ===
Something happens that changes your character forever...

=== Arriving on Locus Astra ===
Events leading right up to the start of the SMP that explains who they are now and why they are that way.

You can add as many subsections as you want.

== Personality ==
Describe how your character tends to act, and what their goals are for the campaign! Here you can explain their beliefs, ideology, and their dreams for the future.

== Relationships ==
This is arguably the most fun section. Here, add subsections for friends, fellow players, your character's family, pets... whatever.

== Extras ==
Here's all the other bells and whistles... for your artwork, screenshots, trivia facts, and music.

For an image gallery, use the "Insert Gallery" feature in the editor. Or, just insert a standard image!

As an added note, please ensure your page is correctly categorized at the bottom!

[[Category:Characters]]

Echo

2026-06-13T21:30:23Z

MathNerd314: Added under construction tag!!

{{UnderConstruction}}
{{Character
| name = Character Name
| image = Placeholder.png

| title = Character Title / Role
| aliases = Any nicknames or alternate names, titles, etc.
| species = Species
| pronouns = Pronouns they use
| age = Age (if known) + in human years

| homeworld = Where they originate from
| affiliation = Faction or group they belong to
| status = Alive / Dead / Unknown

| abilities = Magic, skills, powers, or combat abilities

| kin = Family members or important relations
| marital = Relationship status (if applicable)

| minecraft = Minecraft username
| discord = Discord username
}}

<blockquote>
''"If your character has something cool to say, add it here." — Character Name''
</blockquote>

A short introductory blurb about your character goes here. This should briefly explain who they are, what role they play in the story, and any key traits that define them!

Think of this section as a way to give readers a quick understanding of your character before they read the full page.

== How to Use This Template ==

This page is a '''template and guide'''. Do not directly edit this page!!

To create your own character page:
* Copy the url of this page
* Replace "Character_Template_Page" with your character's name
* You will be brought to the new page, which has not been created yet. Click "edit source"
* Copy this page’s contents from the source editor on this page
* Paste it into the new page and edit there

The Visual Editor can be used afterwards for easier editing, but the source editor is recommended for initial setup to copy all the formatting!

If this page was edited accidentally, please tell someone so it can be restored. Sharky periodically takes backups of the wiki. Mistakes happen.

Ensure the new page is properly categorized under '''Characters'''.

== Appearance ==
While you might think an image is enough to show what your character looks like, it helps enormously to describe your vision in writing as well. This helps a lot with context so artists seeking to draw your character can do so accurately.

== History ==

Describe your character’s background prior to arriving on Locus Astra.

Think to include...
* Origin story
* Key life events
* Motivations
* Personality development

This section is meant to provide 'out-of-character context (OOC-friendly lore explanation)' so other users can understand your character’s role in the world. You don't have to give the same level of detail as you did in your whitelist ticket, but share whatever you want your fellow players to know if they read about your character!

You may want to break up this section into further subheadings, like below:

=== Early Life ===
Childhood and upbringing.

=== Inciting Event/Turning Point ===
Something happens that changes your character forever...

=== Arriving on Locus Astra ===
Events leading right up to the start of the SMP that explains who they are now and why they are that way.

You can add as many subsections as you want.

== Personality ==
Describe how your character tends to act, and what their goals are for the campaign! Here you can explain their beliefs, ideology, and their dreams for the future.

== Relationships ==
This is arguably the most fun section. Here, add subsections for friends, fellow players, your character's family, pets... whatever.

== Extras ==
Here's all the other bells and whistles... for your artwork, screenshots, trivia facts, and music.

For an image gallery, use the "Insert Gallery" feature in the editor. Or, just insert a standard image!

As an added note, please ensure your page is correctly categorized at the bottom!

[[Category:Characters]]

Echo

2026-06-13T15:20:40Z

MathNerd314: Template loaded in

{{Character
| name = Character Name
| image = Placeholder.png

| title = Character Title / Role
| aliases = Any nicknames or alternate names, titles, etc.
| species = Species
| pronouns = Pronouns they use
| age = Age (if known) + in human years

| homeworld = Where they originate from
| affiliation = Faction or group they belong to
| status = Alive / Dead / Unknown

| abilities = Magic, skills, powers, or combat abilities

| kin = Family members or important relations
| marital = Relationship status (if applicable)

| minecraft = Minecraft username
| discord = Discord username
}}

<blockquote>
''"If your character has something cool to say, add it here." — Character Name''
</blockquote>

A short introductory blurb about your character goes here. This should briefly explain who they are, what role they play in the story, and any key traits that define them!

Think of this section as a way to give readers a quick understanding of your character before they read the full page.

== How to Use This Template ==

This page is a '''template and guide'''. Do not directly edit this page!!

To create your own character page:
* Copy the url of this page
* Replace "Character_Template_Page" with your character's name
* You will be brought to the new page, which has not been created yet. Click "edit source"
* Copy this page’s contents from the source editor on this page
* Paste it into the new page and edit there

The Visual Editor can be used afterwards for easier editing, but the source editor is recommended for initial setup to copy all the formatting!

If this page was edited accidentally, please tell someone so it can be restored. Sharky periodically takes backups of the wiki. Mistakes happen.

Ensure the new page is properly categorized under '''Characters'''.

== Appearance ==
While you might think an image is enough to show what your character looks like, it helps enormously to describe your vision in writing as well. This helps a lot with context so artists seeking to draw your character can do so accurately.

== History ==

Describe your character’s background prior to arriving on Locus Astra.

Think to include...
* Origin story
* Key life events
* Motivations
* Personality development

This section is meant to provide 'out-of-character context (OOC-friendly lore explanation)' so other users can understand your character’s role in the world. You don't have to give the same level of detail as you did in your whitelist ticket, but share whatever you want your fellow players to know if they read about your character!

You may want to break up this section into further subheadings, like below:

=== Early Life ===
Childhood and upbringing.

=== Inciting Event/Turning Point ===
Something happens that changes your character forever...

=== Arriving on Locus Astra ===
Events leading right up to the start of the SMP that explains who they are now and why they are that way.

You can add as many subsections as you want.

== Personality ==
Describe how your character tends to act, and what their goals are for the campaign! Here you can explain their beliefs, ideology, and their dreams for the future.

== Relationships ==
This is arguably the most fun section. Here, add subsections for friends, fellow players, your character's family, pets... whatever.

== Extras ==
Here's all the other bells and whistles... for your artwork, screenshots, trivia facts, and music.

For an image gallery, use the "Insert Gallery" feature in the editor. Or, just insert a standard image!

As an added note, please ensure your page is correctly categorized at the bottom!

[[Category:Characters]]

File:Neptan conceptref.png

2026-06-06T21:31:04Z

MathNerd314: /* Summary */

== Summary ==
OLD IMAGE, PLEASE IGNORE.

Thalassans

2026-06-06T21:30:09Z

MathNerd314: Mylio image update

{{Species
| name = Thalassans
| image = connie_conceptref.png

| homeworld = Pelagia
| habitats = Various stratified levels of the ocean
| traits = Extremely varied, but localized to fish and marine animal traits such as fins and gills
| writers = Nikki, Arc, Kay^2
}}

<blockquote>
''"Just as every molecule of water has its place in the machinery of the oceans around us, so too is each and every one of us instrumental to the world around us. Study your path well, and let us all do our part to maintain this beautiful operation." — speaker at a Thalassan graduation ceremony''
</blockquote>

Thalassans are an aquatic, humanoid species that varies widely from individual to individual, due to the explosive genetic diversity of marine life. Many have gills, fins, tails, scales, webbing, and other aquatic adaptations. They are a caste-stratified species denoted by the various depths at which individuals live on their homeworld, '''[[Pelagia]]'''. They are extremely technologically advanced and have been at the forefront of scientific advancement in known space. Their culture combines an almost oppressive work ethic with a deep thirst for knowledge. As a primarily aquatic species, one would imagine that their advancements would be limited, but instead, the opposite is true. Deeply passionate about their life pursuits, Thalassans are appreciated throughout known space as ambitious and competent in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn.

== Core Worldview ==

Thalassan society centers around the idea of perfection, and striving to attain it in every aspect of their lives. While there can be many differing ideas of what perfection can look like, resulting from the many different Thalassan subspecies and their priorities, the ultimate goal is to achieve harmony among these goals.

Such perfectionism is quite noticeable in the intense, almost oppressive work ethic of many Thalassans, regardless of their chosen field. Tasks are treated with great dedication, and timeliness is of great value, both inside and outside the workplace.

This passion for each individual's field also places a great emphasis on ambition and progress in one's achievements. Thalassans strive to be the leaders in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn. On a societal level, this has led to many advancements over time, cementing Pelagia as a hub of technology and research.

Lastly, this perfection finds itself reflected in the overall structure of Thalassan society, where order and stability are established as incredibly important concepts. This reverberates across many spaces, making changes to existing systems often slow to implement in order to preserve existing efforts to optimize them.

== Physiology and Design ==

Common traits found across many Thalassans include:

* Gills in some form
* Specialized sensory organs to allow for detection of electrical fields
* Fins
* Tails
* Scales
* Sharp teeth
* Fish eyes Webbing
* Tentacles and other species-specific features

=== Diet ===
Thalassans are omnivorous, carnivorous, or herbivorous. Each variation has differing diets and nutrition requirements, leading to each city and region having 2-3 different cuisines naturally residing and originating in them based on the dominant Thalassan subspecies/variety.

=== Size and Age ===
Size can vary drastically from 2ft tall (i.e. shrimp-based thalassans) all the way to 8ft tall (i.e. whale-based thalassans). Thalassans have some of the longest lifespans out of the other species universe, but their lifespans mainly are connected to what species variation they are. The average Thalassan lives anywhere from 200 - 500 years old, however some variations of Thalassan genetics are able to live anywhere into the 1000’s, with medical advancements being partially responsible for this extension of their lives.

=== Common Intraspecific Variation ===
Thalassans of many kinds can be found on Pelagia and her sister planets, even if there are drastic differences between some members within the same variation category based on what region or culture they originate from. Thalassans can be broadly classified into a number of sub-variations underneath the overarching umbrella of "Thalassan".

==== The Tiburan ====
This variation dominated in the early warring period of Pelagia. Now they find themselves dominating many fields, being known for their ambition and drive to constantly be moving forward-- whatever 'forward' means to them. This variation is characterized through their sharp rows of teeth, their sandpaper-like skin(dermal denticles), and sharp vision.

==== The Neptan ====

[[File:connie_conceptref.png|150px|thumb|right|Connie Vixen, a Lionfish Neptan and famous Pelagian talk show host]]

This variation is the most common, being able to be found in every environment on Pelagia. Being the most common, they are also the most diverse, with extreme differences being found in each region they reside in. This group made up most of the smaller sects of Thalassan in the warring period. This variation is characterized through their scales, lateral line system, swim bladder, and unique abilities per Neptan variation. For example, a Neptan whose lineage traces back to clownfish is able to change their biological sex through natural processes, and a Neptan found in the deeper water would commonly have bioluminescence.

==== The Crustan ====
This variation can be found on Pelagia and every sister planet. They're known as the most adaptable Thalassan variation, being incredibly durable and strong. Crustan are able to live some of the longest lives of any Thalassan due to their adaptability and constitution, but the upkeep required to maintain themselves is extremely expensive. This variation is characterized by their chitinous exoskeleton, segmented bodies, larval stages, and many have only legs and no fins.

==== The Koppo ====
This variation is not the most common, but it is found in many academic fields, being known culturally for their values on academia. This variation is characterized by their many tentacles, ability to camouflage, their ink sac, and their beak.

==== The Valis ====
This variation is known for their larger than average sizes and for being especially sociable creatures. Valis tend to form close family bonds and deeper friendships, and thrive in fields that encourage communication and teamwork. This variation is characterized by their blowholes, size, lack of gills, smooth skin, and their many unique sensory organs.

==== The Mylio ====

[[File:Mylio_conceptref.png|150px|thumb|right|An individual of Mylio descent.]]

This variation is most commonly known for their dances; they can be found in many entertainment fields, using their unique wing-like fins to entrance and entertain. This variation is characterized by their unique wing-like fins, horn-like projections, and a whip-like tail that can be either razored or venomous.

==== The Usa ====
This variation is known for their many colors and being the most similar to water itself. This variation is characterized by their bioluminescence, stinging cells, and extremely long natural lifespans.

==== The Echino ====
This variation is known for slow, methodical movements and decisions. This variation is characterized by their spiny skin, regenerative abilities, and water vascular system.

==== The Saporans ====
This variation is known for living on the few pieces of land that are above water. However, this is not their only habitat, as they are able to live in most cities that lie in the shallower areas of the oceans and lakes. This variation is characterized by their permeable skin, unique hearing, biphasic lifestyle, and their ability to undergo drastic metamorphosis. This variation has many differences, but they are able to live both with other Thalassans and well among themselves. Many Saporans do tend to live further away from standard Thalassan society, leading to complications in social and cultural exchanges.

== Social Structures and Community ==

Early Thalassan History: Early in Pelagia the oceans were separated by fear and differences. The many variations of Thalassan led to such separation that the word Thalassan did not exist for much of Pelagia's history, they used different words to classify each other. This is where the existence of names like: Tiburan, Neptan, Koppo, and all the other names for intraspecific variation came to be as they were used for these separate tribes. Those words are not used often anymore as the more united Thalassan is much more popular, but older Thalassans still tend to prefer the distinction. These early tribes in Pelagia are long sense disbanded, but the ripple of the early waring periods of the tribes still affects modern Thalassan society. Groups like the Tiburon, the Valis, and the Koppo still benefit from their early dominance on Pelagia. The wealth they accumulated in those times still benefits their children and much of society is still dominated by these groups. Even though the world is not swayed by war and conflict anymore, those that are the strongest, fastest, and deadly still have more opportunities. Beauty standards, popular culture, fashion, and jobs still tend to be swayed by those ideas.

Pelagia holds many cities, all at varying depth and location to accommodate the many different variations. Variations that prefer depth and cold live in cities closer to the poles in the many trenches that carve Pelagia's surface, variations that prefer warmth live closer to he equator at floating surface cities. The variations that prefer to live in wetlands tend to live in the more rural patches of land that speckle the planet. However, the capital city of Pelagia named Coralia houses the widest variations of Thalassan and even many Abyssals.

Thalassan government operates as a partial representative democracy. Each member representing their own field, from engineering to arts. The members of this large council of leaders is decided by a series of tests according to their own fields and public voting, the combination is used to decide who would be the perfect pick. Issues and decisions are tackled by this group of leaders, each providing their perspective and view of how to make the perfect decision, this leads to many decisions taking a very long time. Each term of ruling lasts a short 42 years.

Families in the past were communally raised, and given independance as soon as a child was mature enough to make their own decision to leave or stay. Some Thalassans still do this, but a rising trend due to the individualistic nature of capitalism is a more closed off family structure. With two parents raising their children and once mature that child is forced out to begin their own path but still tied to their family.

== Religion and Spirituality ==
Thalassan's desire for perfectionism has left their previous spiritualist beliefs behind, belief in invisible forces like in religion or spiritualism is not popular, but it still does exist. Few Thalassans still truly believe but the most popular form of spiritualism is a form of Animism that revolves around the currents, waves, maelstroms, the sun, and their three moons. They believe each of these things along with other natural phenomena have their own will, that their is intention behind the chaos. That entropy itself is achieved through will. There is no singular name for it but many refer the idea as being one of a "blue mind".

Currents are viewed as the push and pull of energy, a invisible force that will guide you to where you need to go but over reliance on it will leave you lost or crushed. The instinctual push and pull of life guides all, and you must move through those currents of life with intention or else the oceans intentions will overtake you. Travelers that get caught in currents may view it as the ocean telling them where they must go, and so they listen while they are within it.

Waves represent the ebb and flow of life, that no matter how large you scale you will crash back down eventually only to be built back up into the next wave. You are not the individual wave, but the whole ocean. You will rise high and crash down, but there is more rising and crashing to follow. This is a very important piece of Thalassan philosophy as with their long lifespans there is a lot of time to fail, and having the reminder that you will exist beyond those is important.

Maelstroms are violent whirlpools, they represent turbulent intersections of energies. Different wills battling against one another, and while destructive in their wake they cleanse the energies of that region of ocean. The churning of the water revitalizes the area and uplifts hidden things. If you come across one it is advised that you avoid and go around, but provide an offering to ensure safe passage. The contribution will assist in the revitalization of the water after it has cleared.

The sun's heating and evaporation is a large cause of many ocean currents, as well as generating winds, and evaporation driving storms. The sun is a vital part of what causes the ocean to not only move, but live. Solar bodies represent entropy with intent, the intent of these solar bodies generates entropy and chaos in all that it touches, uneven heating generates winds, winds generate random currents, those energies push, pull and react to each till they dissipate. Great movers and shakers that despite their almost divine form, each action they take eventually breaks down. Chaos consumes, but in that chaos there is beauty. A reminder that no matter how large or powerful you are, or how small and weak all actions lead to the same result, ever echoing chaos and entropy. Each individual themselves is nothing more than the energy that came before, every action is outputting that energy that they are, and even long after they are gone the energy they put out will still be moving and transferring somewhere. No matter what even if you die, you actions will not, their impact will ripple through the universe forever. As energy can never be destroyed.

The three moons on Pelagia have immense spiritualistic meaning. The moons themselves create the chaotic and turbulent ocean that Pelagia holds, the push and pull against each other to create unique tides and waves every day. The three moons are sisters, their names are Tirina, Shura, and Mira. Mira represents the reflection of the Thalassan people, a reflection of their intent and will. Shura represents logic and stability, she is known to have the most stable orbit with it barely moving even a degree off the equator for as long as its been recorded. Tirina represents destruction, she is blackened by the ash of many asteroids and she is believed to be the cause of many tsunamis destructive currents and maelstroms. She is viewed to be Pelagia's anger. Each moon has different meanings at each phase with their new and full variations. During a full moon Mira is said to be reflecting the joy of the Pelagian people, and that she is providing them a feast, as hunting is most efficient in the bright light of the full moon. A full moon for Shura means that the oceans will be calm, and that tranquility is approaching. Tirina at a full moon represents a dangerous ocean, and that she wishes to watch as beings are crushed beneath her waves. New moons always have an ominous meaning behind them but are inverses of their full phase version.

== Technology and Science ==

Thalassan technology, naturally, integrates water into many of its components. From thermal regulation systems to immensely powerful hydraulics to jet propulsion, Thalassans have figured out how to use water to solve almost any engineering problem, creating an incredibly diverse set of devices and machinery based in the principles of the ocean surrounding them.

A notable problem Thalassans have to work around is waterproofing, as seawater can mercilessly erode anything given enough time. Two competing schools of thought exist with regard to solving this issue, with commercial products insisting the superiority of both: making vulnerable systems watertight or making all components compatible with the water around them.

Modern Thalassan magic tends to be harnessed through very specialized pieces of technology, allowing for control and adjustment to protect the user and allow for optimization. These devices tend to be tailored to the individual using them, with designs ranging from glove-like arm covers to remote mechs (all with a focus on allowing free flow around the user).

Major Thalassan cities and universities host frequent inventing, engineering, and robotics competitions. Those who win these competitions are awarded with massive status and opportunity, though perceived failures are punished with equal intensity.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Thalassans have a rather simple sense of fashion. Most civilians prefer lighter clothing of thinner, flowy fabric, a specific type of material that will not hinder their movement but instead grant them ease when swimming while still being considerably fashionable and expressive, even with rich, fancier appearances. Those of higher ranking enforce a more strict form of attire to uphold proper projection and ensure member safety with hydrodynamic gear/outfits (lightweight). These individuals also carry badges on their person, establishing a ranking of position in said company/division. Overall, this leads their attire to be less expressive in comparison to others but still maintains function— if not better. Occasionally, Thalassans hold scheduled seasonal fashion cycles to determine appropriate wear. They create their clothing with what their own world of water offers them. Marine biomass, extracting biopolymers from kelp and seaweed, using silky byssus threads to make sea silk— they use anything at their disposal, often including trade from offworld collaborators.

== Occupations ==

Thalassans find work in an incredibly wide variety of fields, embracing their goal of perfection in just about any occupation they have access to. Those in lower social positions often are restricted to more menial (yet still essential) tasks, where training can often run within families due to the costs associated with professional schooling. Those in higher social positions find themselves at the forefront of their chosen fields, with common aspirations including technological research, engineering design, and academia at large.

Many Thalassan jobs are confined to Pelagia, owing to the uniquely aquatic environment that many individuals find themselves performing best in. Those who do choose to work off-planet are usually at the top of their social spheres, and strive to be seen as leaders in their positions.

An incredibly common feature of most Thalassan workplaces is the implementation of a ranking system among each occupation. Each individual is ranked according to factors like overall performance, efficiency, and reliability, with constant updates as the day progresses. An individual's ranking determines many things about their life, influencing their social standing, pay levels, and ability to participate in the government, with occupational ranking being a major factor in deciding members of the governing council.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

Thalassan space travel is a highly regulated matter in order to uphold the carefully-curated image of Pelagian society with for rest of the known worlds. Most planetary access is through spaceports on the Lightscale Islands, which also tend to act as visitor and business hubs for this reason, though some specialized ports can be found deeper in the cities (such as the Council's Port in Coralia). Tourism tends to be restricted to spaces near the surface of the Lucent Stratum, where breathing infrastructure is most prevalent; however, visitors may gain additional access through a combination of competency examinations and research relevance.

Thalassan spacecraft tend to be very nautical in nature, taking their inspirations from a combination of seafaring vessels and marine life. In addition to space travel, most native Thalassan vessels are also equipped for aquatic travel, allowing unique access to the smaller underwater ports which are also used for domestic travel around Pelagia. Transportation is largely privately-owned, whether by individuals or corporations, but those vessels which are owned by the Thalassan government are grand and pristine, offering immense travel capabilities (though often used for little more than ceremony).

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

The word Thalassan is relatively new—for much of their history, divisions into each of the Thalassan subspecies were far more common, and some of the oldest Thalassans still tend to use these to describe the world around them.

Old money in the Thalassan social stratification is largely based on evolutionary measures/success (i.e., killer whales, large octopi), while new money tends to have come from unique innovation and technological usefulness (i.e., krill being good with smaller electronics).

The obsession with ranking begins incredibly young, with school ranking being an incredibly competitive pursuit as early as primary school. Senior class rankings are even used to award an honorary position among the council to prepare these students for their future pursuits.

Each group's ranking system has an intricate and unique algorithm to determine where individuals will be placed, with factors ranging from concrete research contributions to peer review statistics.

Rankings are updated in real time as events carry on, and are largely accessed online. Specialized physical leaderboards exist around Coralia, with professional centers displaying their own top 1% and a grand leaderboard displaying the top 5 members of each profession outside the Hall of Perfection.

Thalassan life is incredibly regular, with many individuals carrying out an optimized schedule that they have crafted over many years. To disrupt this schedule is a major faux pas in the upper echelons of society.

Each year, Coralia hosts a festival known as The Day of Advancement, celebrating the progress and achievements made that year in Thalassan society and highlighting the most prolific contributors to that success.

The badges worn by those in Thalassan upper society denote their positioning within society and how close to perfection they have achieved. Each additional line added to the fractal-like patterning on them demonstrates even greater lifetime achievement.

== Notable Locations ==

===The Lightscale Islands===
The Lightscale Islands are the artificial island-like structures scattered around Pelagia's otherwise mostly oceanic surface which mark the uppermost access points to most major cities. Due to their nature as rare patches of dry land, they serve as the planet's major travel hubs, and the most common routes in and out of Thalassan society. Though the land itself is limited, there are major communities between the islands and the cities proper with significant air infrastructure to allow for collaborative work to be done between Thalassans and visitors. These areas see some of the highest performances of Thalassan perfection culture (second only to the capital, Coralia), with constant cleaning and upkeep involved in ensuring an outward image of perfection.

===Coralia===
Coralia is the capital city of Pelagia, and the largest city in the Lucent Stratum. Its Lightscale Island is the most significant planetary hub on Pelagia, with many businesses having operating centers there, though access further into the city is heavily restricted to only the finest, most competent individuals. At the city's center is the Hall of Perfection, which acts as the seat of the Thalassan government and is where the ruling council meets. Surrounding the central chambers is a sprawling administrative complex, where many of the minutiae of Thalassan existence are dictated. Much of the rest of the city serves as a research hub, allowing the members of the council to spend their non-governing time contributing to the growth of their individual fields. The city is by far the most orderly space on Pelagia on every level, from the intense cleanliness measures to its overall hub-and-spokes design dividing the space into clear regions based on occupation.

===Saltspray Plateau===
The Saltspray Plateau is a major hub of Thalassan industry, and the largest city of the Twilight Stratum. This space receives comparatively few outside visitors, with the majority of infrastructure designed for Thalassan locals to navigate most easily. The city has a constant hustle and bustle, leaving few quiet moments for residents. The more industrial sectors tend to focus predominantly on supporting on-world resources, including manufacturing facilities for designs produced in upper layers and maintenance support centers for the rest of the planet. The leisure sectors, on the other hand, are well-known for their neverending nightlife (in part sustained due to the lower light levels at these depths), drawing attention from across Thalassan society to give a break from the stress that expectations of perfection can bring.

===The Great Barriers===
The divisions of the planet, the Strata separate Pelagia into almost different worlds despite being immediately adjacent to one another. The Great Barriers themselves exist to demarcate these divisions—though they do not actually block access from one side to another, they make clear the distinctions in expectations between the spaces. The Lucent-Twilight Barrier is quite active, and often exists largely for ceremonial and regulatory purposes than anything else. The Twilight-Noct Barrier, on the other hand, sits mostly abandoned on the edge of the Noct Stratum, as residents on either side tend to keep to themselves, with a sort of rust belt surrounding this space where ideas have either risen in the Thalassan ranks or been abandoned out of imperfections.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

Thalassans tend to maintain at least a working relationship with other species, as the resources and ideas that they can provide can prove quite useful in the advancement of perfection on Pelagia. However, this connection tends to be at the uppermost level in both societies, and Thalassans tend to focus primarily on their own success ahead of that of others. Some particular relations of note are listed below.

===Abyssal===
The Abyssal were once one of the many subspecies populating Pelagia's waters, though in the times before Thalassan unification they were already somewhat distant from the others by nature. Following the unification of the Thalassans and their growing focus on perfection, the Abyssal separated even more, withdrawing largely to the Noct Stratum where few Thalassans tended to go to avoid early Thalassan efforts to include them in their plans for unification. As such, the Abyssal tend to be viewed simply as notable outsiders among Thalassan society, though some have been acknowledged for tremendous potential in their fields (such as thermodynamic research or record-keeping). Despite this, they tend to be viewed with somewhat more trepidation than non-Pelagian outsiders, owing to the Noct Stratum's reputation for chaotic behavior and stories of lurking dangers.

===Aurelians===
A fellow society proud to maintain an orderly understanding of the universe and innovation, Thalassan attitudes tend to be quite favorable towards Aurelians, especially among those in higher positions on Pelagia. The flow of ideas and tehcnologies between Pelagia and the Eden Construct is quite common, and collaboration between the two is relatively common. Thalassans, however, are quite fond of the ability to control and harness magic, and thus the Aurelian aversion to magic proves somewhat troublesome in collaborative endeavors, leaving Thalassans with a burning feeling that they could be achieving more.

===Ferrans===
Thalassans look kindly upon Ferrans and their fellow dedication to the advancement of scientific research, and quite frequently engage in trade with them for the many resources they have access to. Some Frame designs have even been used to inspire independent Thalassan technologies in the past.

===Lagorans and Cervari===
Despite the technological prowess of the Lagorans, relations with the Thalassans have been mixed throughout history. The discovery of warpgate technology on Velora left a sour taste in the minds of many older Thalassans, who felt that it tarnished the reputation of Pelagia as the home of the most idealized technological development. However, following its initial introduction, those who were less inclined to hold a grudge became notable contributors to the more flowlike elements of warpgates (including optimized cooling systems and the use of waterproofing technology to shield the gates from the interstellar void), collaborating with individuals across many species and gaining major social capital for their success back on Pelagia. As a result, relations are now largely positive among younger Thalassans, though far more so with the Lagorans than the Cervari due to their technical expertise.

== Inspiration Images ==

<gallery>
File:Thalassan_landscape1.png|Thalassan landscape aesthetics!
File:Thalassan_landscape2.png|
File:Thalassan_landscape3.png|
File:Lightscale_arch.png|A concept for the Lightscale Islands.
File:Zora_arch.png|More general Thalassan architecture inspiration.
File:Thalassan_industry2.png|Thalassan industrial integration.
File:Thalassan_industry1.png|
File:Thalassan_space1.jpeg|Potential Thalassan bio-inspired spaceship design.
File:Thalassan_space2.jpeg|Potential Thalassan nautical spaceship design.
File:Novacorps_ranks.png|An idea similar to upper-class Thalassan ranking badges.
</gallery>

== Concept Art ==

<gallery>
File:Sonya_conceptref.png|Sonya Steele.
File:Maria_conceptref.png|Maria Steele, a Thalassan player character.
File:Arden_conceptref.jpg|Arden Steele, a rather physiologically abnormal Thalassan.
File:Connie_conceptref.png|Connie Vixen, a Thalassan talk show host.
File:Mylio_conceptref.png|
File:Thalassan_conceptref.png|
</gallery>

[[Category:Species]]

File:Mylio conceptref.png

2026-06-06T21:29:18Z

MathNerd314: A concept image of a Thalassan individual of Mylio descent. Art by Jay!

== Summary ==
A concept image of a Thalassan individual of Mylio descent. Art by Jay!

File:Neptan conceptref.png

2026-06-06T21:01:58Z

MathNerd314: /* Summary */

== Summary ==
A Thalassan individual of Mylio descent. Art by Jay!

Thalassans

2026-06-06T21:00:47Z

MathNerd314: Added more images from older art!

{{Species
| name = Thalassans
| image = connie_conceptref.png

| homeworld = Pelagia
| habitats = Various stratified levels of the ocean
| traits = Extremely varied, but localized to fish and marine animal traits such as fins and gills
| writers = Nikki, Arc, Kay^2
}}

<blockquote>
''"Just as every molecule of water has its place in the machinery of the oceans around us, so too is each and every one of us instrumental to the world around us. Study your path well, and let us all do our part to maintain this beautiful operation." — speaker at a Thalassan graduation ceremony''
</blockquote>

Thalassans are an aquatic, humanoid species that varies widely from individual to individual, due to the explosive genetic diversity of marine life. Many have gills, fins, tails, scales, webbing, and other aquatic adaptations. They are a caste-stratified species denoted by the various depths at which individuals live on their homeworld, '''[[Pelagia]]'''. They are extremely technologically advanced and have been at the forefront of scientific advancement in known space. Their culture combines an almost oppressive work ethic with a deep thirst for knowledge. As a primarily aquatic species, one would imagine that their advancements would be limited, but instead, the opposite is true. Deeply passionate about their life pursuits, Thalassans are appreciated throughout known space as ambitious and competent in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn.

== Core Worldview ==

Thalassan society centers around the idea of perfection, and striving to attain it in every aspect of their lives. While there can be many differing ideas of what perfection can look like, resulting from the many different Thalassan subspecies and their priorities, the ultimate goal is to achieve harmony among these goals.

Such perfectionism is quite noticeable in the intense, almost oppressive work ethic of many Thalassans, regardless of their chosen field. Tasks are treated with great dedication, and timeliness is of great value, both inside and outside the workplace.

This passion for each individual's field also places a great emphasis on ambition and progress in one's achievements. Thalassans strive to be the leaders in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn. On a societal level, this has led to many advancements over time, cementing Pelagia as a hub of technology and research.

Lastly, this perfection finds itself reflected in the overall structure of Thalassan society, where order and stability are established as incredibly important concepts. This reverberates across many spaces, making changes to existing systems often slow to implement in order to preserve existing efforts to optimize them.

== Physiology and Design ==

Common traits found across many Thalassans include:

* Gills in some form
* Specialized sensory organs to allow for detection of electrical fields
* Fins
* Tails
* Scales
* Sharp teeth
* Fish eyes Webbing
* Tentacles and other species-specific features

=== Diet ===
Thalassans are omnivorous, carnivorous, or herbivorous. Each variation has differing diets and nutrition requirements, leading to each city and region having 2-3 different cuisines naturally residing and originating in them based on the dominant Thalassan subspecies/variety.

=== Size and Age ===
Size can vary drastically from 2ft tall (i.e. shrimp-based thalassans) all the way to 8ft tall (i.e. whale-based thalassans). Thalassans have some of the longest lifespans out of the other species universe, but their lifespans mainly are connected to what species variation they are. The average Thalassan lives anywhere from 200 - 500 years old, however some variations of Thalassan genetics are able to live anywhere into the 1000’s, with medical advancements being partially responsible for this extension of their lives.

=== Common Intraspecific Variation ===
Thalassans of many kinds can be found on Pelagia and her sister planets, even if there are drastic differences between some members within the same variation category based on what region or culture they originate from. Thalassans can be broadly classified into a number of sub-variations underneath the overarching umbrella of "Thalassan".

==== The Tiburan ====
This variation dominated in the early warring period of Pelagia. Now they find themselves dominating many fields, being known for their ambition and drive to constantly be moving forward-- whatever 'forward' means to them. This variation is characterized through their sharp rows of teeth, their sandpaper-like skin(dermal denticles), and sharp vision.

==== The Neptan ====

[[File:connie_conceptref.png|150px|thumb|right|Connie Vixen, a Lionfish Neptan and famous Pelagian talk show host]]

This variation is the most common, being able to be found in every environment on Pelagia. Being the most common, they are also the most diverse, with extreme differences being found in each region they reside in. This group made up most of the smaller sects of Thalassan in the warring period. This variation is characterized through their scales, lateral line system, swim bladder, and unique abilities per Neptan variation. For example, a Neptan whose lineage traces back to clownfish is able to change their biological sex through natural processes, and a Neptan found in the deeper water would commonly have bioluminescence.

==== The Crustan ====
This variation can be found on Pelagia and every sister planet. They're known as the most adaptable Thalassan variation, being incredibly durable and strong. Crustan are able to live some of the longest lives of any Thalassan due to their adaptability and constitution, but the upkeep required to maintain themselves is extremely expensive. This variation is characterized by their chitinous exoskeleton, segmented bodies, larval stages, and many have only legs and no fins.

==== The Koppo ====
This variation is not the most common, but it is found in many academic fields, being known culturally for their values on academia. This variation is characterized by their many tentacles, ability to camouflage, their ink sac, and their beak.

==== The Valis ====
This variation is known for their larger than average sizes and for being especially sociable creatures. Valis tend to form close family bonds and deeper friendships, and thrive in fields that encourage communication and teamwork. This variation is characterized by their blowholes, size, lack of gills, smooth skin, and their many unique sensory organs.

==== The Mylio ====

[[File:Neptan_conceptref.png|150px|thumb|right|An individual of Mylio descent.]]

This variation is most commonly known for their dances; they can be found in many entertainment fields, using their unique wing-like fins to entrance and entertain. This variation is characterized by their unique wing-like fins, horn-like projections, and a whip-like tail that can be either razored or venomous.

==== The Usa ====
This variation is known for their many colors and being the most similar to water itself. This variation is characterized by their bioluminescence, stinging cells, and extremely long natural lifespans.

==== The Echino ====
This variation is known for slow, methodical movements and decisions. This variation is characterized by their spiny skin, regenerative abilities, and water vascular system.

==== The Saporans ====
This variation is known for living on the few pieces of land that are above water. However, this is not their only habitat, as they are able to live in most cities that lie in the shallower areas of the oceans and lakes. This variation is characterized by their permeable skin, unique hearing, biphasic lifestyle, and their ability to undergo drastic metamorphosis. This variation has many differences, but they are able to live both with other Thalassans and well among themselves. Many Saporans do tend to live further away from standard Thalassan society, leading to complications in social and cultural exchanges.

== Social Structures and Community ==

Early Thalassan History: Early in Pelagia the oceans were separated by fear and differences. The many variations of Thalassan led to such separation that the word Thalassan did not exist for much of Pelagia's history, they used different words to classify each other. This is where the existence of names like: Tiburan, Neptan, Koppo, and all the other names for intraspecific variation came to be as they were used for these separate tribes. Those words are not used often anymore as the more united Thalassan is much more popular, but older Thalassans still tend to prefer the distinction. These early tribes in Pelagia are long sense disbanded, but the ripple of the early waring periods of the tribes still affects modern Thalassan society. Groups like the Tiburon, the Valis, and the Koppo still benefit from their early dominance on Pelagia. The wealth they accumulated in those times still benefits their children and much of society is still dominated by these groups. Even though the world is not swayed by war and conflict anymore, those that are the strongest, fastest, and deadly still have more opportunities. Beauty standards, popular culture, fashion, and jobs still tend to be swayed by those ideas.

Pelagia holds many cities, all at varying depth and location to accommodate the many different variations. Variations that prefer depth and cold live in cities closer to the poles in the many trenches that carve Pelagia's surface, variations that prefer warmth live closer to he equator at floating surface cities. The variations that prefer to live in wetlands tend to live in the more rural patches of land that speckle the planet. However, the capital city of Pelagia named Coralia houses the widest variations of Thalassan and even many Abyssals.

Thalassan government operates as a partial representative democracy. Each member representing their own field, from engineering to arts. The members of this large council of leaders is decided by a series of tests according to their own fields and public voting, the combination is used to decide who would be the perfect pick. Issues and decisions are tackled by this group of leaders, each providing their perspective and view of how to make the perfect decision, this leads to many decisions taking a very long time. Each term of ruling lasts a short 42 years.

Families in the past were communally raised, and given independance as soon as a child was mature enough to make their own decision to leave or stay. Some Thalassans still do this, but a rising trend due to the individualistic nature of capitalism is a more closed off family structure. With two parents raising their children and once mature that child is forced out to begin their own path but still tied to their family.

== Religion and Spirituality ==
Thalassan's desire for perfectionism has left their previous spiritualist beliefs behind, belief in invisible forces like in religion or spiritualism is not popular, but it still does exist. Few Thalassans still truly believe but the most popular form of spiritualism is a form of Animism that revolves around the currents, waves, maelstroms, the sun, and their three moons. They believe each of these things along with other natural phenomena have their own will, that their is intention behind the chaos. That entropy itself is achieved through will. There is no singular name for it but many refer the idea as being one of a "blue mind".

Currents are viewed as the push and pull of energy, a invisible force that will guide you to where you need to go but over reliance on it will leave you lost or crushed. The instinctual push and pull of life guides all, and you must move through those currents of life with intention or else the oceans intentions will overtake you. Travelers that get caught in currents may view it as the ocean telling them where they must go, and so they listen while they are within it.

Waves represent the ebb and flow of life, that no matter how large you scale you will crash back down eventually only to be built back up into the next wave. You are not the individual wave, but the whole ocean. You will rise high and crash down, but there is more rising and crashing to follow. This is a very important piece of Thalassan philosophy as with their long lifespans there is a lot of time to fail, and having the reminder that you will exist beyond those is important.

Maelstroms are violent whirlpools, they represent turbulent intersections of energies. Different wills battling against one another, and while destructive in their wake they cleanse the energies of that region of ocean. The churning of the water revitalizes the area and uplifts hidden things. If you come across one it is advised that you avoid and go around, but provide an offering to ensure safe passage. The contribution will assist in the revitalization of the water after it has cleared.

The sun's heating and evaporation is a large cause of many ocean currents, as well as generating winds, and evaporation driving storms. The sun is a vital part of what causes the ocean to not only move, but live. Solar bodies represent entropy with intent, the intent of these solar bodies generates entropy and chaos in all that it touches, uneven heating generates winds, winds generate random currents, those energies push, pull and react to each till they dissipate. Great movers and shakers that despite their almost divine form, each action they take eventually breaks down. Chaos consumes, but in that chaos there is beauty. A reminder that no matter how large or powerful you are, or how small and weak all actions lead to the same result, ever echoing chaos and entropy. Each individual themselves is nothing more than the energy that came before, every action is outputting that energy that they are, and even long after they are gone the energy they put out will still be moving and transferring somewhere. No matter what even if you die, you actions will not, their impact will ripple through the universe forever. As energy can never be destroyed.

The three moons on Pelagia have immense spiritualistic meaning. The moons themselves create the chaotic and turbulent ocean that Pelagia holds, the push and pull against each other to create unique tides and waves every day. The three moons are sisters, their names are Tirina, Shura, and Mira. Mira represents the reflection of the Thalassan people, a reflection of their intent and will. Shura represents logic and stability, she is known to have the most stable orbit with it barely moving even a degree off the equator for as long as its been recorded. Tirina represents destruction, she is blackened by the ash of many asteroids and she is believed to be the cause of many tsunamis destructive currents and maelstroms. She is viewed to be Pelagia's anger. Each moon has different meanings at each phase with their new and full variations. During a full moon Mira is said to be reflecting the joy of the Pelagian people, and that she is providing them a feast, as hunting is most efficient in the bright light of the full moon. A full moon for Shura means that the oceans will be calm, and that tranquility is approaching. Tirina at a full moon represents a dangerous ocean, and that she wishes to watch as beings are crushed beneath her waves. New moons always have an ominous meaning behind them but are inverses of their full phase version.

== Technology and Science ==

Thalassan technology, naturally, integrates water into many of its components. From thermal regulation systems to immensely powerful hydraulics to jet propulsion, Thalassans have figured out how to use water to solve almost any engineering problem, creating an incredibly diverse set of devices and machinery based in the principles of the ocean surrounding them.

A notable problem Thalassans have to work around is waterproofing, as seawater can mercilessly erode anything given enough time. Two competing schools of thought exist with regard to solving this issue, with commercial products insisting the superiority of both: making vulnerable systems watertight or making all components compatible with the water around them.

Modern Thalassan magic tends to be harnessed through very specialized pieces of technology, allowing for control and adjustment to protect the user and allow for optimization. These devices tend to be tailored to the individual using them, with designs ranging from glove-like arm covers to remote mechs (all with a focus on allowing free flow around the user).

Major Thalassan cities and universities host frequent inventing, engineering, and robotics competitions. Those who win these competitions are awarded with massive status and opportunity, though perceived failures are punished with equal intensity.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Thalassans have a rather simple sense of fashion. Most civilians prefer lighter clothing of thinner, flowy fabric, a specific type of material that will not hinder their movement but instead grant them ease when swimming while still being considerably fashionable and expressive, even with rich, fancier appearances. Those of higher ranking enforce a more strict form of attire to uphold proper projection and ensure member safety with hydrodynamic gear/outfits (lightweight). These individuals also carry badges on their person, establishing a ranking of position in said company/division. Overall, this leads their attire to be less expressive in comparison to others but still maintains function— if not better. Occasionally, Thalassans hold scheduled seasonal fashion cycles to determine appropriate wear. They create their clothing with what their own world of water offers them. Marine biomass, extracting biopolymers from kelp and seaweed, using silky byssus threads to make sea silk— they use anything at their disposal, often including trade from offworld collaborators.

== Occupations ==

Thalassans find work in an incredibly wide variety of fields, embracing their goal of perfection in just about any occupation they have access to. Those in lower social positions often are restricted to more menial (yet still essential) tasks, where training can often run within families due to the costs associated with professional schooling. Those in higher social positions find themselves at the forefront of their chosen fields, with common aspirations including technological research, engineering design, and academia at large.

Many Thalassan jobs are confined to Pelagia, owing to the uniquely aquatic environment that many individuals find themselves performing best in. Those who do choose to work off-planet are usually at the top of their social spheres, and strive to be seen as leaders in their positions.

An incredibly common feature of most Thalassan workplaces is the implementation of a ranking system among each occupation. Each individual is ranked according to factors like overall performance, efficiency, and reliability, with constant updates as the day progresses. An individual's ranking determines many things about their life, influencing their social standing, pay levels, and ability to participate in the government, with occupational ranking being a major factor in deciding members of the governing council.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

Thalassan space travel is a highly regulated matter in order to uphold the carefully-curated image of Pelagian society with for rest of the known worlds. Most planetary access is through spaceports on the Lightscale Islands, which also tend to act as visitor and business hubs for this reason, though some specialized ports can be found deeper in the cities (such as the Council's Port in Coralia). Tourism tends to be restricted to spaces near the surface of the Lucent Stratum, where breathing infrastructure is most prevalent; however, visitors may gain additional access through a combination of competency examinations and research relevance.

Thalassan spacecraft tend to be very nautical in nature, taking their inspirations from a combination of seafaring vessels and marine life. In addition to space travel, most native Thalassan vessels are also equipped for aquatic travel, allowing unique access to the smaller underwater ports which are also used for domestic travel around Pelagia. Transportation is largely privately-owned, whether by individuals or corporations, but those vessels which are owned by the Thalassan government are grand and pristine, offering immense travel capabilities (though often used for little more than ceremony).

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

The word Thalassan is relatively new—for much of their history, divisions into each of the Thalassan subspecies were far more common, and some of the oldest Thalassans still tend to use these to describe the world around them.

Old money in the Thalassan social stratification is largely based on evolutionary measures/success (i.e., killer whales, large octopi), while new money tends to have come from unique innovation and technological usefulness (i.e., krill being good with smaller electronics).

The obsession with ranking begins incredibly young, with school ranking being an incredibly competitive pursuit as early as primary school. Senior class rankings are even used to award an honorary position among the council to prepare these students for their future pursuits.

Each group's ranking system has an intricate and unique algorithm to determine where individuals will be placed, with factors ranging from concrete research contributions to peer review statistics.

Rankings are updated in real time as events carry on, and are largely accessed online. Specialized physical leaderboards exist around Coralia, with professional centers displaying their own top 1% and a grand leaderboard displaying the top 5 members of each profession outside the Hall of Perfection.

Thalassan life is incredibly regular, with many individuals carrying out an optimized schedule that they have crafted over many years. To disrupt this schedule is a major faux pas in the upper echelons of society.

Each year, Coralia hosts a festival known as The Day of Advancement, celebrating the progress and achievements made that year in Thalassan society and highlighting the most prolific contributors to that success.

The badges worn by those in Thalassan upper society denote their positioning within society and how close to perfection they have achieved. Each additional line added to the fractal-like patterning on them demonstrates even greater lifetime achievement.

== Notable Locations ==

===The Lightscale Islands===
The Lightscale Islands are the artificial island-like structures scattered around Pelagia's otherwise mostly oceanic surface which mark the uppermost access points to most major cities. Due to their nature as rare patches of dry land, they serve as the planet's major travel hubs, and the most common routes in and out of Thalassan society. Though the land itself is limited, there are major communities between the islands and the cities proper with significant air infrastructure to allow for collaborative work to be done between Thalassans and visitors. These areas see some of the highest performances of Thalassan perfection culture (second only to the capital, Coralia), with constant cleaning and upkeep involved in ensuring an outward image of perfection.

===Coralia===
Coralia is the capital city of Pelagia, and the largest city in the Lucent Stratum. Its Lightscale Island is the most significant planetary hub on Pelagia, with many businesses having operating centers there, though access further into the city is heavily restricted to only the finest, most competent individuals. At the city's center is the Hall of Perfection, which acts as the seat of the Thalassan government and is where the ruling council meets. Surrounding the central chambers is a sprawling administrative complex, where many of the minutiae of Thalassan existence are dictated. Much of the rest of the city serves as a research hub, allowing the members of the council to spend their non-governing time contributing to the growth of their individual fields. The city is by far the most orderly space on Pelagia on every level, from the intense cleanliness measures to its overall hub-and-spokes design dividing the space into clear regions based on occupation.

===Saltspray Plateau===
The Saltspray Plateau is a major hub of Thalassan industry, and the largest city of the Twilight Stratum. This space receives comparatively few outside visitors, with the majority of infrastructure designed for Thalassan locals to navigate most easily. The city has a constant hustle and bustle, leaving few quiet moments for residents. The more industrial sectors tend to focus predominantly on supporting on-world resources, including manufacturing facilities for designs produced in upper layers and maintenance support centers for the rest of the planet. The leisure sectors, on the other hand, are well-known for their neverending nightlife (in part sustained due to the lower light levels at these depths), drawing attention from across Thalassan society to give a break from the stress that expectations of perfection can bring.

===The Great Barriers===
The divisions of the planet, the Strata separate Pelagia into almost different worlds despite being immediately adjacent to one another. The Great Barriers themselves exist to demarcate these divisions—though they do not actually block access from one side to another, they make clear the distinctions in expectations between the spaces. The Lucent-Twilight Barrier is quite active, and often exists largely for ceremonial and regulatory purposes than anything else. The Twilight-Noct Barrier, on the other hand, sits mostly abandoned on the edge of the Noct Stratum, as residents on either side tend to keep to themselves, with a sort of rust belt surrounding this space where ideas have either risen in the Thalassan ranks or been abandoned out of imperfections.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

Thalassans tend to maintain at least a working relationship with other species, as the resources and ideas that they can provide can prove quite useful in the advancement of perfection on Pelagia. However, this connection tends to be at the uppermost level in both societies, and Thalassans tend to focus primarily on their own success ahead of that of others. Some particular relations of note are listed below.

===Abyssal===
The Abyssal were once one of the many subspecies populating Pelagia's waters, though in the times before Thalassan unification they were already somewhat distant from the others by nature. Following the unification of the Thalassans and their growing focus on perfection, the Abyssal separated even more, withdrawing largely to the Noct Stratum where few Thalassans tended to go to avoid early Thalassan efforts to include them in their plans for unification. As such, the Abyssal tend to be viewed simply as notable outsiders among Thalassan society, though some have been acknowledged for tremendous potential in their fields (such as thermodynamic research or record-keeping). Despite this, they tend to be viewed with somewhat more trepidation than non-Pelagian outsiders, owing to the Noct Stratum's reputation for chaotic behavior and stories of lurking dangers.

===Aurelians===
A fellow society proud to maintain an orderly understanding of the universe and innovation, Thalassan attitudes tend to be quite favorable towards Aurelians, especially among those in higher positions on Pelagia. The flow of ideas and tehcnologies between Pelagia and the Eden Construct is quite common, and collaboration between the two is relatively common. Thalassans, however, are quite fond of the ability to control and harness magic, and thus the Aurelian aversion to magic proves somewhat troublesome in collaborative endeavors, leaving Thalassans with a burning feeling that they could be achieving more.

===Ferrans===
Thalassans look kindly upon Ferrans and their fellow dedication to the advancement of scientific research, and quite frequently engage in trade with them for the many resources they have access to. Some Frame designs have even been used to inspire independent Thalassan technologies in the past.

===Lagorans and Cervari===
Despite the technological prowess of the Lagorans, relations with the Thalassans have been mixed throughout history. The discovery of warpgate technology on Velora left a sour taste in the minds of many older Thalassans, who felt that it tarnished the reputation of Pelagia as the home of the most idealized technological development. However, following its initial introduction, those who were less inclined to hold a grudge became notable contributors to the more flowlike elements of warpgates (including optimized cooling systems and the use of waterproofing technology to shield the gates from the interstellar void), collaborating with individuals across many species and gaining major social capital for their success back on Pelagia. As a result, relations are now largely positive among younger Thalassans, though far more so with the Lagorans than the Cervari due to their technical expertise.

== Inspiration Images ==

<gallery>
File:Thalassan_landscape1.png|Thalassan landscape aesthetics!
File:Thalassan_landscape2.png|
File:Thalassan_landscape3.png|
File:Lightscale_arch.png|A concept for the Lightscale Islands.
File:Zora_arch.png|More general Thalassan architecture inspiration.
File:Thalassan_industry2.png|Thalassan industrial integration.
File:Thalassan_industry1.png|
File:Thalassan_space1.jpeg|Potential Thalassan bio-inspired spaceship design.
File:Thalassan_space2.jpeg|Potential Thalassan nautical spaceship design.
File:Novacorps_ranks.png|An idea similar to upper-class Thalassan ranking badges.
</gallery>

== Concept Art ==

<gallery>
File:Sonya_conceptref.png|Sonya Steele.
File:Maria_conceptref.png|Maria Steele, a Thalassan player character.
File:Arden_conceptref.jpg|Arden Steele, a rather physiologically abnormal Thalassan.
File:Connie_conceptref.png|Connie Vixen, a Thalassan talk show host.
File:Neptan_conceptref.png|
File:Thalassan_conceptref.png|
</gallery>

[[Category:Species]]

File:Thalassan conceptref.png

2026-06-06T20:53:07Z

MathNerd314: A typical Thalassan. Art by Bella!

== Summary ==
A typical Thalassan. Art by Bella!

File:Neptan conceptref.png

2026-06-06T20:52:45Z

MathNerd314: A Thalassan individual of Neptan descent. Art by Jay!

== Summary ==
A Thalassan individual of Neptan descent. Art by Jay!

File:Connie conceptref.png

2026-06-06T20:52:10Z

MathNerd314: Connie Vixen, a Thalassan talk show host. Art by Kareena!

== Summary ==
Connie Vixen, a Thalassan talk show host. Art by Kareena!

File:Sonya conceptref.png

2026-06-06T20:31:43Z

MathNerd314: MathNerd314 uploaded a new version of File:Sonya conceptref.png

== Summary ==
Image of Sonya to be used for the Thalassan wiki page.

Nythera

2026-06-06T20:09:17Z

MathNerd314: /* Concept Art */ Made the concept art a gallery to help with the formatting!

{{Species
| name = Nythera
| image = Nythera_Art_One.png

| homeworld = Elyndra
Previously Chitara
| habitats = Dark and dense forests and jungles on Elyndra
| traits = Membranes similar to butterfly wings, doll-like joints, antennae, fangs
| writers = Dani
}}

<blockquote>
''"The flame which burns with color most unique is also the most delicate—let us kindle and protect each of our precious sparks in kind." — Nemain, member of the Morrigna''
</blockquote>

The Nythera are a bipedal, fae-like species that live in the dim, canopied forests of '''[[Elyndra]]'''. They are known for the butterfly wings on their face in place of regular eyes, alongside their extensive research into magic. They are long and slender humanoids with common traits being antennae, glowing patterns along their body, and a segmented tail with additional wing membranes along it. They live in clusters, small stone cities spread about under the shade of the forests. They’re a culture of magic and artisan works, famed for their weaving, textiles and libraries of arcane studies. The Nythera believe in self-expression and curiosity, yet their society is rather reluctant to let their people out from The Garden, believing much of the universe to be cruel. Only recently have they loosened their isolationist policies to interact with the other '''[[Planets And Spheres|spheres]]''' formally.

== Core Worldview ==

The Nythera believe in maintaining community, not wishing to leave the Garden Sphere. There is fascination in the great expanse of the sky, but after experiencing hardships long ago, they yearn for little but the life they have sown in Elyndra. They live short lives that decline with age, and so they are firm believers in self-expression; their lives are a candle that is meant to burn brightly until it dies out. With such fleeting lives, they treat death with ambiguity, almost something to laugh about amidst their elaborate funerary rites.

Their lives are meant to create and celebrate before they are consumed by their own magic.

== Physiology and Design ==

The Nytheras are slender, humanoids with butterfly and insectoid features. They have long limbs, typically with jet black, bodies, but they may come in other colors as well. They sport antennae and their bodies appear segmented, almost doll-like in shape. They have long tails, and it is commonly accompanied by glowing patterns along their body. Such patterns can shimmer and flash in accordance with their emotions and thoughts.

They are able to spin silk, but they have no wings upon their back for flying. They were never made to fly. It is said the ancestors of the Nythera had wings, yet that history has long been obscured.

Their most defining feature are the butterfly wings on their face. They can move and emote, in which the “eye spots” on the wings are actually their eyes. They are not actual wings, at least not ones that can serve any purpose of flying, perhaps better described as delicate membranes mimicking them. These structures appear as they age along the Nythera’s body, usually starting at their joints and extending to their tail. More and more grow, getting exponentially worse in their later years.

Nytheras prefer to live in low lighting. While their eyes may be adept to most lighting, the wing membranes are not. Bright light for too long can lead to deterioration. The membranes become more transparent in prolonged exposure, until only the frames remain.

Their height ranges from 5’8” to 7’0”. Nytheras can “live” to their 60s, but this is a highly contested number. The primary reason is due to the nature of '''Serglige''', making even the concept of death an ambiguous state.

== Serglige ==
The Serglige, sometimes referred to as the “wasting sickness” is a long accepted consequence of the ancestors of the Nythera, having migrated to Elyndra to survive the demise of their kind. It is uncertain of the exact origin of Serglige, but it was coined to describe a common affliction that affects Nythera as they get older. The main symptom is a gradual growth of wing membranes. It starts at the joints and grows more and more, getting exponentially more severe as they age. The reason it grows exponentially is because these wing membranes hold magic. That means that as they grow older and gain more wings, their capacity for magic grows. It does not make them inherently better in skill, simply allowing them to store that magic. The Nythera get these boons, yet it comes at the cost of shorter lives compared to most.

It gets to a point that the membranes hinder their mobility and magic degrades their mind. Even the act of passing away is an ordeal in of itself, where one’s body is ladened with wings until it renders them unable to move. The overgrowth dulls their senses, even to pain, and ensures that death is a painless process, leaving only a mound of butterflies in its wake. This is where the matter of “lifespan” is debated. With their increased capacity for magic, they are able to maintain their bodies to sustain life and execute automated actions as per their casting.

There has been extensive research into mitigating the loss of one’s mind to retain their advanced capacity for magic and extend their “lifespan”, and there has been some success.

== Food ==
Nytheras are omnivores. They are able to eat most vegetation of the canopies, greens and mosses and the sparse berries that flourish in the dim light. A lot of their diet handles mushrooms of all sorts, providing them some resistance to poisons and toxins local to Elyndra.

Despite their omnivorous palette, they lean into carnivorous diets. They kill and hunt local fauna, having sharp canines to tear into meat as needed. They often consume blood to obtain necessary nutrients, enabling them to preserve the meat for later. Some call them vampires for this; locals simply call it being resourceful.

== History ==
The Nytherans originated from a sphere named '''[[Chitara]]'''. They were much different back then, once called an extinct species named the '''[REDACTED]'''. Due to an event named The Final Sunset, where a passing sphere consumed Chitara’s primary star, the surface of Chitara was plunged into eternal night. Unable to adapt to the violent change in environment, many of them died off. Whilst the other species went underground, the '''[REDACTED]''' fled the planet. What few remnants of the species ventured to Elyndra, where they were embraced and welcomed into The Garden. Since then, they have forsaken whatever remained of their origins, evolving to adapt to the magic of Elyndra. That, in turn, has created the Nythera of the modern day.

== Social Structures and Community ==
The Nythera live in small cities scattered throughout the canopied forests.

=== Governance ===
The Nythera function in a sort of elective monarchy.

* Elective monarchy; sovereign (Ri), elected from
* Seelie

The Nythera function as a monarchy

* Monarchy (democratic monarchy)
* French government as inspo
* Two courts: Seelie and Unseelie court
** Seelie: Focused in magic research, military, and infrastructure?
** Unseelie: Focused in governance, operations, and diplomacy?
* Current monarch: N/Aa

== Religion and Spirituality ==
The primary religion of the Nythera is known as '''Nil Taras ('''“not returned”). Its demonym is Tarasi, but the faith is sometimes referred to as “The Nil” or its followers as “Nihilists” as so crudely named by foreigners. The faith originated from when the Riodinia first ventured to Elyndra. Stories say that when they were struggling to survive in the forests of the Garden Sphere, the Nullstar had granted them the capability to thrive. Small, white lights danced across the night, and it led them to shelter. The stars were their only guidance. Such good fortune was granted until one night, in their dreams, a small white butterfly whispered, ''“Give up your old face, with eyes that have wept too deeply. Discard them, and you shall find all one needs to make the wilds home.”'' In their desperation, they accepted their blessings. The wings upon their backs were discarded and traded for new ones, sprung from their limbs and face. Those would inevitably become the Nythera they know of today.

''”In exchange of this blessing, you, too, shall be entwined to terminus.”''
[[File:Calliach.png|thumb|Art by Dani @duckitape]]

Tarasi view the Nullstar as a distant, reverent entity, god-like in presence. It is not quite a god in their eyes, not a creator god of any sort. Though they commonly personify it for the sake of storytelling, it is treated as an endpoint. The Nullstar is what tethers the threads of the universe into a singular terminus that all things march towards. These threads are a gift, proof of their magic and the interconnected nature of existence. They revere and worship it, yet it is also the distant inevitability that makes the Nythera unbothered by the idea of studying the Nullstar. Divination is considered a more sacred expression of magic, as it is the only way to “commune” with the Nullstar to learn whispers of the future. While it is treated like a personified entity, they have an inherent grasp of the inhuman nature of it, seeking neither comfort nor retribution. The Tarasi only seek understanding.

Common Tarasi beliefs may make one believe they are fatalists, nihilists that hold no care for the world as they are always fated to die. That is mostly false. They understand the universe in regards to entropy. All things are fated to break down and be reduced to the most basic threads of existence; they especially understand this for themselves. The Serglige is a natural byproduct of their magic when they were at their lowest, and thus, they accept the fate of their shortened lives with dignity. Nythera may study it in pursuit of mitigating its harm or extending their lives, but there is no shame in giving into their affliction. It is simply the Nullstar’s will, the tug of one’s thread. It is only in this acceptance of being undone that they may find freedom in self-expression. If they are not to live long, then let them shine. If their lives are even the smallest spark compared to the Nullstar, then it is a life well lived.

In addition, they find change to be natural, like the change of oneself in name, appearance, or character. They see it is natural for the world around them to change. This belief is somewhat contested by their reluctance to follow those beyond the Garden Sphere, but there is some argument that while change is welcomed, there is a difference between the change of an individual and the change of one’s faith. Even death is nothing more than change, the Serglige creating a liminal state between the death of the body and the death of the mind. Only in severing these threads may one know true rest.

They believe in reincarnation rather than an afterlife of Heaven and Hell. When a Nythera dies and is buried, they are bound to the threads of existence. They may be changed in form, but they will inevitably return to make their descent to terminus once more.

=== Hierarchy ===
Nil Taras has a simple hierarchy, yet a lot of one’s standing depends on either their capabilities in divination or how they are tasked to handle the dying or deceased. At the top is the '''Calliach''', followed by the '''Morrigna''', high ranked diviners that directly serve the Calliach. Under them, their believers are split into two groups, the '''Druids''' and the '''Fianna'''. Both groups manage the rest of the populace, either in general management and organization of the Tarasi events or combat and security.

The main figurehead is someone called the '''Calliach''' (“Veiled One”). She is said to be an elder Nythera, an entity far beyond her years of existence and one of the few consistently successful individuals that has retained her mind despite the Serglige. She is revered and studied, hoping to bring salvation to those seeking her wisdom and magic. She resides in the Tower, in a wing called the Final Hall. In what little movement she can muster, it is said she spends a decade weaving a grand tapestry upon her loom, the Shranga Nialish (“Strings of Null”). At the end of that decade, she reveals it, said to be divining the threads of the Nullstar itself. It divines the future of Elyndra, setting the tone of the current governance of the Nythera.

Beneath the Calliach are the '''Morrigna'''. They are three high ranked diviners that have been selected personally by the Calliach, usually serving for life.

Following that are the Druids and the Fianna. The '''Druids''' are straightforward; they handle the daily operations of the Tower and other Tarasi establishments across Elyndra. They pray, handle event organization, and manage the civilians. They lead worship and train apprentice mages, in which they become diviners or go into other arcane practices. Some of those apprentices are sent to the Fianna. Otherwise, the Druids manage general operations and occasionally communicate with the Monarchy for government issues.

The '''Fianna''' are more adept for fighting. They are the sword and shield within Nil Taras, more militaristic in formation. They manage security to protect Tagranach and the Tower, alongside training apprentices to be more combat adept. Their magic and senses are honed for battle, as they face more than the beasts of Elyndra. Of their duties, the most sacred would be their task to put the Nythera to rest. The Fianna are tasked to grant rest and burial to those that cannot, execute the will of the deceased, and host events in memory of them. They could be considered “death knights,” but perhaps a “funerary procession” is better suited for them.

=== Funerary Rites ===
Funeral procedures are a key aspect of Nytheran culture. It is one of the core duties of the Fianna. Due to the nature of Serglige, that phenomenon has shaped their perception of life and death. Life and death are concepts considered in loose terms, a liminal state, a fine line to waltz upon with abandon. Despite the ambiguous nature of death, there are rather strict procedures for burial. This is for consideration of the living and departed, as Nythera that have succumbed to the Serglige may not be given rest. To ensure proper funerary rites, the Nythera experience 2 deaths:

'''Bas na Feola''': The first death. It is “death of the flesh,” where the body has succumbed to their wounds and injuries. When the toll of mortality has become too great—or when the Serglige has consumed their mind and burdened their form into stillness—that is the first death. The body ceases to function as it once did, leaving only a husk of what used to be. Outsiders would consider this a proper death, as they may appear unmoving and resting. This is not always the case.

'''Bas na Hanam''': The second death and the final rest that allows for them to be given burial. It is “death of the soul.” Sometimes, it is a death that happens coincidingly with the first, like when one is slaughtered by a foe. In many cases, if a Nythera has a decent enough capacity of magic, the body shall endeavor contrary to the host. The habits of one’s life are etched into the soul, so their magic may instinctively resume those habits to feign normalcy. It is akin to a dying wish, mimicking those habits mindlessly ad infinitum. The term is a little deceptive, less of a destruction of the soul and more to release one’s soul from the husk, requiring the halt of its ability to use magic.

Ensuring the second death is the first step in funerary rites. Whether they wish to enact Bas na Hanam is at the discretion of the husk’s related party (be it family, friends, or primary affiliated group). When it is decided, the most common method of a second death is taking the body and laying it out in the sun. The prolonged exposure of the wing membranes that store mana to light will cause them to wilt and dry. Depriving the body of its ability to store mana, the husk will cease to function.

Once the second death is confirmed, the dead are commonly returned to the relevant party or family. The body is usually dressed in silks woven by the family or loved ones. They are commonly buried with crafts and things held dear to them alongside a funerary veil of sorts. It is web-like in patterning and akin to lace in material; it is laid across their face, since the wing membranes of their eyes cannot close naturally once deceased. It is meant to obscure their face with intricate patterns, representing the culmination and “entanglement of one’s life.” The family may hold a vigil in their send off, accompanied by a song or dirge. Only then, may they express their sorrow, but if they do, they must turn away. Departure is never truly the end; they will reunite someday.

The dead are commonly buried with mushrooms and other plants to ensure they decay and return to nothing quickly. If the family or party does not immediately bury the body, they may keep it in some stonework coffin to hold for later burial, such as delaying to bury them during Marvfesh. Rarely are they buried enclosed—thinking the body and spirit confined—when it is meant to rot and return to the earth. Only when it can be returned to nature that ties existence together by threads can they be given peace. ''Never are they burned.''

== Technology and Science ==

Unlike many other planets that either rely on technology or integrate magic into technology, the Nythera preferred to rely on magic for their lifestyle. They have a greater capacity to store mana in their wing membranes with age, allowing them to use magic more extensively before exhaustion. Their aptitude for magic is not derived from the born talent of their species, but rather their culture. With a culture known for weaving and silks, they have an easier time grasping fundamentals to understand magic as “strings to be woven.” However, even with that understanding, their magic can be volatile without proper handling. Common negative consequences of overusing magic may include exhaustion, mutilation (if magic is focused on a particular body part for extended periods of time), and damage to one’s mind. It may damage the soul in extreme cases but it’s rare. The Nythera often partake in rituals to better attune them to their environment to improve their control. Common components include fungi, flowers, and blood, and they are commonly carried in pouches for convenience.

They interact with magic in the way they interact with silks; they pluck strings like an instrument, or they weave the threads together. The Nythera may cast spells utilizing vocals: they hum or sing, and some even use instruments as a medium, plucking at the strings of the arcane. Some of their most prolific mages were singers and dancers.

As for their technology, it is not as advanced as their other planet peers. They see little need to compete on that front, sufficiently integrating technology into their magic to automate and enable mass production with less active oversight in those matters. Aspects of textile manufacturing, agriculture, and other essential functions are a few of those works automated by magitech. They may also utilize alchemy and potioncrafting due to their familiarity with herbs and how these components interact with magic.

One such common integration seen around Nytheran settlements are constructs forged from magic and tech, completing a variety of tasks for day to day life or general safety. Though many Nythera prefer magic, there has been a change to study and integrate more foreign technology as more foreigners visit Elyndra.

=== Divination ===
Divination is understood as the practice of foretelling events by grasping the threads of the universe. It is their effort to comprehend the Nullstar, weaving threads of causality into a form that could be interpreted. Nythera have a particular means of divination, but it is also one of their more prolific manifestations of magic. It is a taxing ritual, in which they weave together large, intricate tapestries made from their silks. Many mages come together to perform and interpret into messages and prophecies. They are known to be remarkably accurate.

Many diviners work with their religion, and some have participation in government, where they present divinations to the Seelie and Unseelie courts to deliberate on policies and governance. However, it is not a requirement to be a believer to practice divination. They simply get the easiest access to other diviners and resources to perform their divinations, thus improving the quality of their tapestries. Most diviners hail from Tagranach, trained in their youth. Many that utilize this magic regularly may have callous, damaged, or even disfigured hands. The more prolific diviners may have decorative claws to obscure and protect their damaged hands to continue weaving.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Fashion is a major aspect of society. With their major industries in textiles and artisan crafts, they have a wide variety of attires to sport. The only restriction on clothing is the consideration of their tail and the wing membranes along their body. They can cover the wing membranes, but it is ill advised to constrict them with tight sleeved clothing. Their fabric is high quality and durable, often having complex embroidereries.

The Nythera like to wear accessories such as jewelry with gemstones and draping fabrics. It is common to accessorize their tails with bands and bags to carry things. Sometimes, they even do piercings.

== Occupations ==

Common occupations include weavers or anything in textile manufacturing, performing arts roles, musicians, artists and other artisan positions. There is also a significant population that practices agriculture to sustain them.

Their most known occupations, outside of governance, relate to magic. Many Nytheras are mages and researchers, skilled in magic for a variety of uses. There is a notable size of teachers to educate both their own people and outsiders that have started to frequent their populace.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

Due to their distant origins from Chitara, they do have the capacity for space travel. They have the remnants of old technology for when their ancestors fled during the Final Sunset. Though their fleet is far and few, they have worked to ensure its functionality. There are a few newer models too, some almost insectoid in silhouette. However, their technology is relatively outdated. It works fine enough, given it has some modifications to adapt the old technology and their magic capabilities.

Despite their ability to do space travel, they would prefer not to. They understand the need to leave and interact with the stars, but they would rather not. Leaving Elyndra with the intent of forsaking the Garden Sphere is frowned upon. Attitudes towards space travel have changed in recent times. There were already changing sentiments leading up to the mission to go to The Anchor, but the mission solidified it further. Now, space travel is treated with ambivalence. As long as their travels are for their people, it can be permitted somewhat.

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

=== Festivals ===
Given their short lives and expression of magic and arts, they like to hold parties. It uplifts the spirit of their people and maintains friendly relations with the Slythae. It’s their means of instating their new sovereigns and how they enact diplomacy with others. The art of constructing such festivals and parties is a key skill of Nytheran politicians, however frivolous that sounds. Etiquette and decorum is a key aspect of it, however unorthodox it may be at times. Aside from their regular congregations with the Slythae, they have numerous festivals they host throughout the seasons:

'''Marvfesh:''' (“elegy”) It is a festival in memory of the deceased. It celebrates their life and the ambiguity of death. It is also a day dedicated to putting their lingering elders to rest, if they are deemed “deceased in the mind.” Those laid to rest in these days are considered

'''Fayla Blahfar:''' (“blooming festival”) A showcase of the arts across several days, celebrating their artisans in a complex gallery of sorts. The main events are showcases of their tapestries at dawn and a performance at dusk.

'''Glor na Morrigna:''' (“Voice of the Morrigna”) A religious festival at the start of the year. It is mostly a formal celebration of their faith, giving offerings and visiting the Calliach’s abode. The festival ends with the Morrigna divining for the Nythera. It grants the year good tidings. Once a decade, the Calliach imparts her divination, in which those special variants of the festivals are called the Glor na Calliach (“Voice of the Calliach”). The tapestry is gifted to the reigning monarch as an omen for their rule. This is the only festival that takes place exclusively at nighttime.

=== Arts ===
Due to their masterwork in spinning silks and weaving cloth, their culture has always had an emphasis in the arts. Why dream of the vast expanse overhead, when all over could ever dream of laid at their feet? The fine arts are integral to their society, best known for their textiles and performing arts. They have a culture of gift giving; the act of crafting for another rather than mere purchase is considered common practice. Mass produced items as personal gifts (for special events such as holidays) is considered rude.

Magecraft, in their eyes, is also considered an art. They spend day and night honing their craft. They host several schools and facilities to study and perfect their understanding of magic. Due to their greater capacity for magic, they are one of the more magically competent species.

Artisan works and textile manufacturing are their primary exports. There are also several significant idols and mages that gain traction amongst Elyndra and other planets.

For their performing arts, music is their main art. Most folks learn some string instrument if they aren’t trained in weaving, as it aids in understanding the fundamentals of magic. Their primary instruments are strings and vocals alongside the occasional percussion instrument. They call their style of singing Macalla Nos (“echoed style”). Their vocals utilize a lot of vibrato, operatic techniques, and melismatic singing. They have the capacity to distort and echo their voice slightly, using magic to that effect for more varied music. This may cause discomfort to the listener if they are not adjusted to Macalla Nos. Such distorting effects may be applied to string instruments, too, as both are a means of channeling their magic.

=== Etiquette ===
Etiquette is not something that is all-consuming in their day-to-day lives. However, it is a key aspect of their celebrations. The Nythera have particular rules as a sort of decorum they adhere to amidst festivals and especially during diplomacy. Failure to adhere to these rules could be considered a faux pas and result in needless conflict. Specific rules may vary between festivals, but the more common ones as follows:

* Names are rarely spoken aloud during festivals; titles or epithets are used in place. Using one’s name is akin to a direct challenge or perceived as hostile.
* Do not spill or waste any drinks.
* If there must be gifts, bring them in pairs.
* Do not thank each other, it implies debt to the other party.

It is never clear as to when or why they established such decorum, exclusive to their festivities. Some say it was a lingering habit of a flourishing bygone reign, eccentricities mimicked in hopes of inviting good tidings. Others suggest it is a means of protection; celebration may be seen as a point of weakness, so such rules are a means of warding off ill omens. The occasional outsider remarks that these customs only remain due to the sheer amusement it brings to inconvenience outsiders, akin to one convoluted inside joke.

''Who knows.''

=== Misc ===

* Their stories and mythos often put things in pairs or multiples of 2. A lot of their traditions reflect this, too. It’s because their time of unity with the Slythae only comes twice a day, one at dawn and the second at dusk.
* Imagery of dawn and dusk is also prevalent since it is the few times that is not too bright for the Nythera and not too dark for the Slythae. They often hold festivities and parties at dawn and dusk, too.

== Notable Locations ==

=== Elfame ===
Elfame is the name of their most prominent city, their capital of sorts. It is the largest gathering of Nythera, where most of their economic and government activities occur. It is a sprawling city at the heart of their innumerable canopied forests. Here lies the heart of their governance, where the monarchy resides. This is also where their educational institutions for magic are focused in, too. The performing arts thrive in this place. Anything that’s worth anything will likely happen here, be it social or magical in nature.

=== Tagranach ===
The second largest city, far north of Elfame. It is colder and their forests are more evergreen, accompanied by fungal canopies. Here lies the heart of their religion. It is where the Cailliach resides to share her wisdom of the Nullstar. Most divinations will transpire here due to available resources. It is surprisingly peaceful, albeit uneasy to outsiders with the “faint, looming presence of death” as they say. A lot of musicians and weavers congregate here.

=== Other Settlements ===

==== Skaaglen ====
A settlement of magic and ends, southeast of Tagranach. A lot of arcane scholars arrive here to study the dead and how mana flows through the bodies of elder Nythera. With the old age of Nythera suffering from the Serglige, many have been reduced to mindless husks that behave like puppets; they are reduced to their old routines, sustained by magic that consumes their body. It is sometimes called the “Cairn,” as it is where some Nythera are put to final rest. It is decorated with numerous cairns scattered about the settlement.

==== Fieltan ====
It is one of the more prominent places to conduct festivals or business. West of Elfame, it lays at the edge of their canopied forests. It is a settlement that is mostly decorative, a sprawling open town with plenty of space for party arrangements. It is occasionally called the “Half-Light” as it is distinctly presented as a place literally half in the shade, half in the light.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

=== Nytheran-Sylthae Relations ===
The Nythera and Slythae have coexisted for a long time. Perhaps, there was once a time they avoided each other by nature of their opposing constitutions; one required the sunlight to thrive while the other had to avoid it. That has changed, given their shared affinity for Elyndra and capacity for magic. They have found ways to coexist and thrive together. It also helps that the Sylthae are lax in nature, making it easier to communicate on peaceful terms.

All of Elyndra has a culture of “party hours” throughout the years and days. These include annual celebrations, but also the casual festivities that occur every dawn and dusk. Parties at Dawn are hosted by Sylthae in honor of long sunny days ahead. Parties at Dusk are hosted by Nythera to rejoice in the dim glow of moonlight all night long. While Sylthae and Nythera may celebrate these separately, they often come together in “Party Towns” to celebrate together. This is a very special bond since dawn and dusk are the only times where it is light enough for the Slythae and dim enough for the Nythera to coexist. It is also why Nythera values things in pairs, for the dawn and dusk that brings them together to their Sylthae peers.

=== Relations with Foreigners ===
The Nythera are generally wary of foreigners. Though capable of space travel, they once had more isolationist policies as a means of protecting themselves. They had minimal reason to expand their trading or seek more territory due to their constitution and general dislike for leaving Elyndra. In the recent decades, they have significantly lessened these policies. They accept all sorts of visitors who had ventured to study their magic and arts, however, there are numerous regulations for them. There are few outsiders that stay for the long term.

They are generally indifferent, if not cautious, towards most species. They are especially cautious of Carcids and Lepterans, as they have been made into tall tales by them like boogeymen that caused the Final Sunset. The only other species they are particularly guarded towards are the Aurelians, as they see them as an imperialist group that wishes to smother their capacity for magic. They hardly entertain their “guidance” when they must participate in diplomacy.

== Concept Art ==
<Gallery>
File:Nythera_Fullbody1.png|none|thumb|Art by Dani @duckitape
File:Nythera_Fullbody2.png|none|thumb|Art by Dani @duckitape
File:Nythera_Fullbody3.png|none|thumb|Art by Dani @duckitape
File:Nythera Art Two.png|none|thumb|An elder Nythera individual. Art by Dani @duckitape
File:Nythera_Serglige.png|none|thumb|Progression of the Serglige. Art by Dani @duckitape
File:Nythera_ColorStyle.png|none|thumb|Many colorful variations among the Nythera. Art by Dani @duckitape
File:Nythera_Clothing.png|none|thumb|Concepts for Nythera clothing. Art by Dani @duckitape
</Gallery>

[[Category:Species]]

File:Sonya conceptref.png

2026-06-06T20:06:15Z

MathNerd314: Image of Sonya to be used for the Thalassan wiki page.

== Summary ==
Image of Sonya to be used for the Thalassan wiki page.

Thalassans

2026-06-06T20:03:48Z

MathNerd314: Quick formatting fix

{{Species
| name = Species Name
| image = Placeholder.png

| homeworld = Pelagia
| habitats = Various stratified levels of the ocean
| traits = Extremely varied, but localized to fish and marine animal traits such as fins and gills
| writers = Nikki, Arc, Kay^2
}}

<blockquote>
''"Just as every molecule of water has its place in the machinery of the oceans around us, so too is each and every one of us instrumental to the world around us. Study your path well, and let us all do our part to maintain this beautiful operation." — speaker at a Thalassan graduation ceremony''
</blockquote>

Thalassans are an aquatic, humanoid species that varies widely from individual to individual, due to the explosive genetic diversity of marine life. Many have gills, fins, tails, scales, webbing, and other aquatic adaptations. They are a caste-stratified species denoted by the various depths at which individuals live on their homeworld, '''[[Pelagia]]'''. They are extremely technologically advanced and have been at the forefront of scientific advancement in known space. Their culture combines an almost oppressive work ethic with a deep thirst for knowledge. As a primarily aquatic species, one would imagine that their advancements would be limited, but instead, the opposite is true. Deeply passionate about their life pursuits, Thalassans are appreciated throughout known space as ambitious and competent in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn.

== Core Worldview ==

Thalassan society centers around the idea of perfection, and striving to attain it in every aspect of their lives. While there can be many differing ideas of what perfection can look like, resulting from the many different Thalassan subspecies and their priorities, the ultimate goal is to achieve harmony among these goals.

Such perfectionism is quite noticeable in the intense, almost oppressive work ethic of many Thalassans, regardless of their chosen field. Tasks are treated with great dedication, and timeliness is of great value, both inside and outside the workplace.

This passion for each individual's field also places a great emphasis on ambition and progress in one's achievements. Thalassans strive to be the leaders in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn. On a societal level, this has led to many advancements over time, cementing Pelagia as a hub of technology and research.

Lastly, this perfection finds itself reflected in the overall structure of Thalassan society, where order and stability are established as incredibly important concepts. This reverberates across many spaces, making changes to existing systems often slow to implement in order to preserve existing efforts to optimize them.

== Physiology and Design ==

Common traits found across many Thalassans include:

* Gills in some form
* Specialized sensory organs to allow for detection of electrical fields
* Fins
* Tails
* Scales
* Sharp teeth
* Fish eyes Webbing
* Tentacles and other species-specific features

=== Diet ===
Thalassans are omnivorous, carnivorous, or herbivorous. Each variation has differing diets and nutrition requirements, leading to each city and region having 2-3 different cuisines naturally residing and originating in them based on the dominant Thalassan subspecies/variety.

=== Size and Age ===
Size can vary drastically from 2ft tall (i.e. shrimp-based thalassans) all the way to 8ft tall (i.e. whale-based thalassans). Thalassans have some of the longest lifespans out of the other species universe, but their lifespans mainly are connected to what species variation they are. The average Thalassan lives anywhere from 200 - 500 years old, however some variations of Thalassan genetics are able to live anywhere into the 1000’s, with medical advancements being partially responsible for this extension of their lives.

=== Common Intraspecific Variation ===
Thalassans of many kinds can be found on Pelagia and her sister planets, even if there are drastic differences between some members within the same variation category based on what region or culture they originate from. Thalassans can be broadly classified into a number of sub-variations underneath the overarching umbrella of "Thalassan".

==== The Tiburan ====
This variation dominated in the early warring period of Pelagia. Now they find themselves dominating many fields, being known for their ambition and drive to constantly be moving forward-- whatever 'forward' means to them. This variation is characterized through their sharp rows of teeth, their sandpaper-like skin(dermal denticles), and sharp vision.

==== The Neptan ====
This variation is the most common, being able to be found in every environment on Pelagia. Being the most common, they are also the most diverse, with extreme differences being found in each region they reside in. This group made up most of the smaller sects of Thalassan in the warring period. This variation is characterized through their scales, lateral line system, swim bladder, and unique abilities per Neptan variation. For example, a Neptan whose lineage traces back to clownfish is able to change their biological sex through natural processes, and a Neptan found in the deeper water would commonly have bioluminescence. Connie Vixen - Lionfish Neptan and famous Pelagia talk show host

==== The Crustan ====
This variation can be found on Pelagia and every sister planet. They're known as the most adaptable Thalassan variation, being incredibly durable and strong. Crustan are able to live some of the longest lives of any Thalassan due to their adaptability and constitution, but the upkeep required to maintain themselves is extremely expensive. This variation is characterized by their chitinous exoskeleton, segmented bodies, larval stages, and many have only legs and no fins.

==== The Koppo ====
This variation is not the most common, but it is found in many academic fields, being known culturally for their values on academia. This variation is characterized by their many tentacles, ability to camouflage, their ink sac, and their beak.

==== The Valis ====
This variation is known for their larger than average sizes and for being especially sociable creatures. Valis tend to form close family bonds and deeper friendships, and thrive in fields that encourage communication and teamwork. This variation is characterized by their blowholes, size, lack of gills, smooth skin, and their many unique sensory organs.

==== The Mylio ====
This variation is most commonly known for their dances; they can be found in many entertainment fields, using their unique wing-like fins to entrance and entertain. This variation is characterized by their unique wing-like fins, horn-like projections, and a whip-like tail that can be either razored or venomous.

==== The Usa ====
This variation is known for their many colors and being the most similar to water itself. This variation is characterized by their bioluminescence, stinging cells, and extremely long natural lifespans.

==== The Echino ====
This variation is known for slow, methodical movements and decisions. This variation is characterized by their spiny skin, regenerative abilities, and water vascular system.

==== The Saporans ====
This variation is known for living on the few pieces of land that are above water. However, this is not their only habitat, as they are able to live in most cities that lie in the shallower areas of the oceans and lakes. This variation is characterized by their permeable skin, unique hearing, biphasic lifestyle, and their ability to undergo drastic metamorphosis. This variation has many differences, but they are able to live both with other Thalassans and well among themselves. Many Saporans do tend to live further away from standard Thalassan society, leading to complications in social and cultural exchanges.

== Social Structures and Community ==

Early Thalassan History: Early in Pelagia the oceans were separated by fear and differences. The many variations of Thalassan led to such separation that the word Thalassan did not exist for much of Pelagia's history, they used different words to classify each other. This is where the existence of names like: Tiburan, Neptan, Koppo, and all the other names for intraspecific variation came to be as they were used for these separate tribes. Those words are not used often anymore as the more united Thalassan is much more popular, but older Thalassans still tend to prefer the distinction. These early tribes in Pelagia are long sense disbanded, but the ripple of the early waring periods of the tribes still affects modern Thalassan society. Groups like the Tiburon, the Valis, and the Koppo still benefit from their early dominance on Pelagia. The wealth they accumulated in those times still benefits their children and much of society is still dominated by these groups. Even though the world is not swayed by war and conflict anymore, those that are the strongest, fastest, and deadly still have more opportunities. Beauty standards, popular culture, fashion, and jobs still tend to be swayed by those ideas.

Pelagia holds many cities, all at varying depth and location to accommodate the many different variations. Variations that prefer depth and cold live in cities closer to the poles in the many trenches that carve Pelagia's surface, variations that prefer warmth live closer to he equator at floating surface cities. The variations that prefer to live in wetlands tend to live in the more rural patches of land that speckle the planet. However, the capital city of Pelagia named Coralia houses the widest variations of Thalassan and even many Abyssals.

Thalassan government operates as a partial representative democracy. Each member representing their own field, from engineering to arts. The members of this large council of leaders is decided by a series of tests according to their own fields and public voting, the combination is used to decide who would be the perfect pick. Issues and decisions are tackled by this group of leaders, each providing their perspective and view of how to make the perfect decision, this leads to many decisions taking a very long time. Each term of ruling lasts a short 42 years.

Families in the past were communally raised, and given independance as soon as a child was mature enough to make their own decision to leave or stay. Some Thalassans still do this, but a rising trend due to the individualistic nature of capitalism is a more closed off family structure. With two parents raising their children and once mature that child is forced out to begin their own path but still tied to their family.

== Religion and Spirituality ==
Thalassan's desire for perfectionism has left their previous spiritualist beliefs behind, belief in invisible forces like in religion or spiritualism is not popular, but it still does exist. Few Thalassans still truly believe but the most popular form of spiritualism is a form of Animism that revolves around the currents, waves, maelstroms, the sun, and their three moons. They believe each of these things along with other natural phenomena have their own will, that their is intention behind the chaos. That entropy itself is achieved through will. There is no singular name for it but many refer the idea as being one of a "blue mind".

Currents are viewed as the push and pull of energy, a invisible force that will guide you to where you need to go but over reliance on it will leave you lost or crushed. The instinctual push and pull of life guides all, and you must move through those currents of life with intention or else the oceans intentions will overtake you. Travelers that get caught in currents may view it as the ocean telling them where they must go, and so they listen while they are within it.

Waves represent the ebb and flow of life, that no matter how large you scale you will crash back down eventually only to be built back up into the next wave. You are not the individual wave, but the whole ocean. You will rise high and crash down, but there is more rising and crashing to follow. This is a very important piece of Thalassan philosophy as with their long lifespans there is a lot of time to fail, and having the reminder that you will exist beyond those is important.

Maelstroms are violent whirlpools, they represent turbulent intersections of energies. Different wills battling against one another, and while destructive in their wake they cleanse the energies of that region of ocean. The churning of the water revitalizes the area and uplifts hidden things. If you come across one it is advised that you avoid and go around, but provide an offering to ensure safe passage. The contribution will assist in the revitalization of the water after it has cleared.

The sun's heating and evaporation is a large cause of many ocean currents, as well as generating winds, and evaporation driving storms. The sun is a vital part of what causes the ocean to not only move, but live. Solar bodies represent entropy with intent, the intent of these solar bodies generates entropy and chaos in all that it touches, uneven heating generates winds, winds generate random currents, those energies push, pull and react to each till they dissipate. Great movers and shakers that despite their almost divine form, each action they take eventually breaks down. Chaos consumes, but in that chaos there is beauty. A reminder that no matter how large or powerful you are, or how small and weak all actions lead to the same result, ever echoing chaos and entropy. Each individual themselves is nothing more than the energy that came before, every action is outputting that energy that they are, and even long after they are gone the energy they put out will still be moving and transferring somewhere. No matter what even if you die, you actions will not, their impact will ripple through the universe forever. As energy can never be destroyed.

The three moons on Pelagia have immense spiritualistic meaning. The moons themselves create the chaotic and turbulent ocean that Pelagia holds, the push and pull against each other to create unique tides and waves every day. The three moons are sisters, their names are Tirina, Shura, and Mira. Mira represents the reflection of the Thalassan people, a reflection of their intent and will. Shura represents logic and stability, she is known to have the most stable orbit with it barely moving even a degree off the equator for as long as its been recorded. Tirina represents destruction, she is blackened by the ash of many asteroids and she is believed to be the cause of many tsunamis destructive currents and maelstroms. She is viewed to be Pelagia's anger. Each moon has different meanings at each phase with their new and full variations. During a full moon Mira is said to be reflecting the joy of the Pelagian people, and that she is providing them a feast, as hunting is most efficient in the bright light of the full moon. A full moon for Shura means that the oceans will be calm, and that tranquility is approaching. Tirina at a full moon represents a dangerous ocean, and that she wishes to watch as beings are crushed beneath her waves. New moons always have an ominous meaning behind them but are inverses of their full phase version.

== Technology and Science ==

Thalassan technology, naturally, integrates water into many of its components. From thermal regulation systems to immensely powerful hydraulics to jet propulsion, Thalassans have figured out how to use water to solve almost any engineering problem, creating an incredibly diverse set of devices and machinery based in the principles of the ocean surrounding them.

A notable problem Thalassans have to work around is waterproofing, as seawater can mercilessly erode anything given enough time. Two competing schools of thought exist with regard to solving this issue, with commercial products insisting the superiority of both: making vulnerable systems watertight or making all components compatible with the water around them.

Modern Thalassan magic tends to be harnessed through very specialized pieces of technology, allowing for control and adjustment to protect the user and allow for optimization. These devices tend to be tailored to the individual using them, with designs ranging from glove-like arm covers to remote mechs (all with a focus on allowing free flow around the user).

Major Thalassan cities and universities host frequent inventing, engineering, and robotics competitions. Those who win these competitions are awarded with massive status and opportunity, though perceived failures are punished with equal intensity.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Thalassans have a rather simple sense of fashion. Most civilians prefer lighter clothing of thinner, flowy fabric, a specific type of material that will not hinder their movement but instead grant them ease when swimming while still being considerably fashionable and expressive, even with rich, fancier appearances. Those of higher ranking enforce a more strict form of attire to uphold proper projection and ensure member safety with hydrodynamic gear/outfits (lightweight). These individuals also carry badges on their person, establishing a ranking of position in said company/division. Overall, this leads their attire to be less expressive in comparison to others but still maintains function— if not better. Occasionally, Thalassans hold scheduled seasonal fashion cycles to determine appropriate wear. They create their clothing with what their own world of water offers them. Marine biomass, extracting biopolymers from kelp and seaweed, using silky byssus threads to make sea silk— they use anything at their disposal, often including trade from offworld collaborators.

== Occupations ==

Thalassans find work in an incredibly wide variety of fields, embracing their goal of perfection in just about any occupation they have access to. Those in lower social positions often are restricted to more menial (yet still essential) tasks, where training can often run within families due to the costs associated with professional schooling. Those in higher social positions find themselves at the forefront of their chosen fields, with common aspirations including technological research, engineering design, and academia at large.

Many Thalassan jobs are confined to Pelagia, owing to the uniquely aquatic environment that many individuals find themselves performing best in. Those who do choose to work off-planet are usually at the top of their social spheres, and strive to be seen as leaders in their positions.

An incredibly common feature of most Thalassan workplaces is the implementation of a ranking system among each occupation. Each individual is ranked according to factors like overall performance, efficiency, and reliability, with constant updates as the day progresses. An individual's ranking determines many things about their life, influencing their social standing, pay levels, and ability to participate in the government, with occupational ranking being a major factor in deciding members of the governing council.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

Thalassan space travel is a highly regulated matter in order to uphold the carefully-curated image of Pelagian society with for rest of the known worlds. Most planetary access is through spaceports on the Lightscale Islands, which also tend to act as visitor and business hubs for this reason, though some specialized ports can be found deeper in the cities (such as the Council's Port in Coralia). Tourism tends to be restricted to spaces near the surface of the Lucent Stratum, where breathing infrastructure is most prevalent; however, visitors may gain additional access through a combination of competency examinations and research relevance.

Thalassan spacecraft tend to be very nautical in nature, taking their inspirations from a combination of seafaring vessels and marine life. In addition to space travel, most native Thalassan vessels are also equipped for aquatic travel, allowing unique access to the smaller underwater ports which are also used for domestic travel around Pelagia. Transportation is largely privately-owned, whether by individuals or corporations, but those vessels which are owned by the Thalassan government are grand and pristine, offering immense travel capabilities (though often used for little more than ceremony).

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

The word Thalassan is relatively new—for much of their history, divisions into each of the Thalassan subspecies were far more common, and some of the oldest Thalassans still tend to use these to describe the world around them.

Old money in the Thalassan social stratification is largely based on evolutionary measures/success (i.e., killer whales, large octopi), while new money tends to have come from unique innovation and technological usefulness (i.e., krill being good with smaller electronics).

The obsession with ranking begins incredibly young, with school ranking being an incredibly competitive pursuit as early as primary school. Senior class rankings are even used to award an honorary position among the council to prepare these students for their future pursuits.

Each group's ranking system has an intricate and unique algorithm to determine where individuals will be placed, with factors ranging from concrete research contributions to peer review statistics.

Rankings are updated in real time as events carry on, and are largely accessed online. Specialized physical leaderboards exist around Coralia, with professional centers displaying their own top 1% and a grand leaderboard displaying the top 5 members of each profession outside the Hall of Perfection.

Thalassan life is incredibly regular, with many individuals carrying out an optimized schedule that they have crafted over many years. To disrupt this schedule is a major faux pas in the upper echelons of society.

Each year, Coralia hosts a festival known as The Day of Advancement, celebrating the progress and achievements made that year in Thalassan society and highlighting the most prolific contributors to that success.

The badges worn by those in Thalassan upper society denote their positioning within society and how close to perfection they have achieved. Each additional line added to the fractal-like patterning on them demonstrates even greater lifetime achievement.

== Notable Locations ==

===The Lightscale Islands===
The Lightscale Islands are the artificial island-like structures scattered around Pelagia's otherwise mostly oceanic surface which mark the uppermost access points to most major cities. Due to their nature as rare patches of dry land, they serve as the planet's major travel hubs, and the most common routes in and out of Thalassan society. Though the land itself is limited, there are major communities between the islands and the cities proper with significant air infrastructure to allow for collaborative work to be done between Thalassans and visitors. These areas see some of the highest performances of Thalassan perfection culture (second only to the capital, Coralia), with constant cleaning and upkeep involved in ensuring an outward image of perfection.

===Coralia===
Coralia is the capital city of Pelagia, and the largest city in the Lucent Stratum. Its Lightscale Island is the most significant planetary hub on Pelagia, with many businesses having operating centers there, though access further into the city is heavily restricted to only the finest, most competent individuals. At the city's center is the Hall of Perfection, which acts as the seat of the Thalassan government and is where the ruling council meets. Surrounding the central chambers is a sprawling administrative complex, where many of the minutiae of Thalassan existence are dictated. Much of the rest of the city serves as a research hub, allowing the members of the council to spend their non-governing time contributing to the growth of their individual fields. The city is by far the most orderly space on Pelagia on every level, from the intense cleanliness measures to its overall hub-and-spokes design dividing the space into clear regions based on occupation.

===Saltspray Plateau===
The Saltspray Plateau is a major hub of Thalassan industry, and the largest city of the Twilight Stratum. This space receives comparatively few outside visitors, with the majority of infrastructure designed for Thalassan locals to navigate most easily. The city has a constant hustle and bustle, leaving few quiet moments for residents. The more industrial sectors tend to focus predominantly on supporting on-world resources, including manufacturing facilities for designs produced in upper layers and maintenance support centers for the rest of the planet. The leisure sectors, on the other hand, are well-known for their neverending nightlife (in part sustained due to the lower light levels at these depths), drawing attention from across Thalassan society to give a break from the stress that expectations of perfection can bring.

===The Great Barriers===
The divisions of the planet, the Strata separate Pelagia into almost different worlds despite being immediately adjacent to one another. The Great Barriers themselves exist to demarcate these divisions—though they do not actually block access from one side to another, they make clear the distinctions in expectations between the spaces. The Lucent-Twilight Barrier is quite active, and often exists largely for ceremonial and regulatory purposes than anything else. The Twilight-Noct Barrier, on the other hand, sits mostly abandoned on the edge of the Noct Stratum, as residents on either side tend to keep to themselves, with a sort of rust belt surrounding this space where ideas have either risen in the Thalassan ranks or been abandoned out of imperfections.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

Thalassans tend to maintain at least a working relationship with other species, as the resources and ideas that they can provide can prove quite useful in the advancement of perfection on Pelagia. However, this connection tends to be at the uppermost level in both societies, and Thalassans tend to focus primarily on their own success ahead of that of others. Some particular relations of note are listed below.

===Abyssal===
The Abyssal were once one of the many subspecies populating Pelagia's waters, though in the times before Thalassan unification they were already somewhat distant from the others by nature. Following the unification of the Thalassans and their growing focus on perfection, the Abyssal separated even more, withdrawing largely to the Noct Stratum where few Thalassans tended to go to avoid early Thalassan efforts to include them in their plans for unification. As such, the Abyssal tend to be viewed simply as notable outsiders among Thalassan society, though some have been acknowledged for tremendous potential in their fields (such as thermodynamic research or record-keeping). Despite this, they tend to be viewed with somewhat more trepidation than non-Pelagian outsiders, owing to the Noct Stratum's reputation for chaotic behavior and stories of lurking dangers.

===Aurelians===
A fellow society proud to maintain an orderly understanding of the universe and innovation, Thalassan attitudes tend to be quite favorable towards Aurelians, especially among those in higher positions on Pelagia. The flow of ideas and tehcnologies between Pelagia and the Eden Construct is quite common, and collaboration between the two is relatively common. Thalassans, however, are quite fond of the ability to control and harness magic, and thus the Aurelian aversion to magic proves somewhat troublesome in collaborative endeavors, leaving Thalassans with a burning feeling that they could be achieving more.

===Ferrans===
Thalassans look kindly upon Ferrans and their fellow dedication to the advancement of scientific research, and quite frequently engage in trade with them for the many resources they have access to. Some Frame designs have even been used to inspire independent Thalassan technologies in the past.

===Lagorans and Cervari===
Despite the technological prowess of the Lagorans, relations with the Thalassans have been mixed throughout history. The discovery of warpgate technology on Velora left a sour taste in the minds of many older Thalassans, who felt that it tarnished the reputation of Pelagia as the home of the most idealized technological development. However, following its initial introduction, those who were less inclined to hold a grudge became notable contributors to the more flowlike elements of warpgates (including optimized cooling systems and the use of waterproofing technology to shield the gates from the interstellar void), collaborating with individuals across many species and gaining major social capital for their success back on Pelagia. As a result, relations are now largely positive among younger Thalassans, though far more so with the Lagorans than the Cervari due to their technical expertise.

== Inspiration Images ==

<gallery>
File:Thalassan_landscape1.png|Thalassan landscape aesthetics!
File:Thalassan_landscape2.png|
File:Thalassan_landscape3.png|
File:Lightscale_arch.png|A concept for the Lightscale Islands.
File:Zora_arch.png|More general Thalassan architecture inspiration.
File:Thalassan_industry2.png|Thalassan industrial integration.
File:Thalassan_industry1.png|
File:Thalassan_space1.jpeg|Potential Thalassan bio-inspired spaceship design.
File:Thalassan_space2.jpeg|Potential Thalassan nautical spaceship design.
File:Novacorps_ranks.png|An idea similar to upper-class Thalassan ranking badges.
</gallery>

== Concept Art ==

<gallery>
File:Sonya_conceptref.png|Sonya Steele.
File:Maria_conceptref.png|Maria Steele, a Thalassan player character.
File:Arden_conceptref.jpg|Arden Steele, a rather physiologically abnormal Thalassan.
</gallery>

[[Category:Species]]

Thalassans

2026-06-06T20:02:55Z

MathNerd314: Formatting update in physiology section

{{Species
| name = Species Name
| image = Placeholder.png

| homeworld = Pelagia
| habitats = Various stratified levels of the ocean
| traits = Extremely varied, but localized to fish and marine animal traits such as fins and gills
| writers = Nikki, Arc, Kay^2
}}

<blockquote>
''"Just as every molecule of water has its place in the machinery of the oceans around us, so too is each and every one of us instrumental to the world around us. Study your path well, and let us all do our part to maintain this beautiful operation." — speaker at a Thalassan graduation ceremony''
</blockquote>

Thalassans are an aquatic, humanoid species that varies widely from individual to individual, due to the explosive genetic diversity of marine life. Many have gills, fins, tails, scales, webbing, and other aquatic adaptations. They are a caste-stratified species denoted by the various depths at which individuals live on their homeworld, '''[[Pelagia]]'''. They are extremely technologically advanced and have been at the forefront of scientific advancement in known space. Their culture combines an almost oppressive work ethic with a deep thirst for knowledge. As a primarily aquatic species, one would imagine that their advancements would be limited, but instead, the opposite is true. Deeply passionate about their life pursuits, Thalassans are appreciated throughout known space as ambitious and competent in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn.

== Core Worldview ==

Thalassan society centers around the idea of perfection, and striving to attain it in every aspect of their lives. While there can be many differing ideas of what perfection can look like, resulting from the many different Thalassan subspecies and their priorities, the ultimate goal is to achieve harmony among these goals.

Such perfectionism is quite noticeable in the intense, almost oppressive work ethic of many Thalassans, regardless of their chosen field. Tasks are treated with great dedication, and timeliness is of great value, both inside and outside the workplace.

This passion for each individual's field also places a great emphasis on ambition and progress in one's achievements. Thalassans strive to be the leaders in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn. On a societal level, this has led to many advancements over time, cementing Pelagia as a hub of technology and research.

Lastly, this perfection finds itself reflected in the overall structure of Thalassan society, where order and stability are established as incredibly important concepts. This reverberates across many spaces, making changes to existing systems often slow to implement in order to preserve existing efforts to optimize them.

== Physiology and Design ==

Common traits found across many Thalassans include:

* Gills in some form
* Specialized sensory organs to allow for detection of electrical fields
* Fins
* Tails
* Scales
* Sharp teeth
* Fish eyes Webbing
* Tentacles and other species-specific features

=== Diet: ===
Thalassans are omnivorous, carnivorous, or herbivorous. Each variation has differing diets and nutrition requirements, leading to each city and region having 2-3 different cuisines naturally residing and originating in them based on the dominant Thalassan subspecies/variety.

=== Size and Age: ===
Size can vary drastically from 2ft tall (i.e. shrimp-based thalassans) all the way to 8ft tall (i.e. whale-based thalassans). Thalassans have some of the longest lifespans out of the other species universe, but their lifespans mainly are connected to what species variation they are. The average Thalassan lives anywhere from 200 - 500 years old, however some variations of Thalassan genetics are able to live anywhere into the 1000’s, with medical advancements being partially responsible for this extension of their lives.

=== Common Intraspecific Variation ===
Thalassans of many kinds can be found on Pelagia and her sister planets, even if there are drastic differences between some members within the same variation category based on what region or culture they originate from. Thalassans can be broadly classified into a number of sub-variations underneath the overarching umbrella of "Thalassan".

==== The Tiburan ====
This variation dominated in the early warring period of Pelagia. Now they find themselves dominating many fields, being known for their ambition and drive to constantly be moving forward-- whatever 'forward' means to them. This variation is characterized through their sharp rows of teeth, their sandpaper-like skin(dermal denticles), and sharp vision.

==== The Neptan ====
This variation is the most common, being able to be found in every environment on Pelagia. Being the most common, they are also the most diverse, with extreme differences being found in each region they reside in. This group made up most of the smaller sects of Thalassan in the warring period. This variation is characterized through their scales, lateral line system, swim bladder, and unique abilities per Neptan variation. For example, a Neptan whose lineage traces back to clownfish is able to change their biological sex through natural processes, and a Neptan found in the deeper water would commonly have bioluminescence. Connie Vixen - Lionfish Neptan and famous Pelagia talk show host

==== The Crustan ====
This variation can be found on Pelagia and every sister planet. They're known as the most adaptable Thalassan variation, being incredibly durable and strong. Crustan are able to live some of the longest lives of any Thalassan due to their adaptability and constitution, but the upkeep required to maintain themselves is extremely expensive. This variation is characterized by their chitinous exoskeleton, segmented bodies, larval stages, and many have only legs and no fins.

==== The Koppo ====
This variation is not the most common, but it is found in many academic fields, being known culturally for their values on academia. This variation is characterized by their many tentacles, ability to camouflage, their ink sac, and their beak.

==== The Valis ====
This variation is known for their larger than average sizes and for being especially sociable creatures. Valis tend to form close family bonds and deeper friendships, and thrive in fields that encourage communication and teamwork. This variation is characterized by their blowholes, size, lack of gills, smooth skin, and their many unique sensory organs.

==== The Mylio ====
This variation is most commonly known for their dances; they can be found in many entertainment fields, using their unique wing-like fins to entrance and entertain. This variation is characterized by their unique wing-like fins, horn-like projections, and a whip-like tail that can be either razored or venomous.

==== The Usa ====
This variation is known for their many colors and being the most similar to water itself. This variation is characterized by their bioluminescence, stinging cells, and extremely long natural lifespans.

==== The Echino ====
This variation is known for slow, methodical movements and decisions. This variation is characterized by their spiny skin, regenerative abilities, and water vascular system.

==== The Saporans ====
This variation is known for living on the few pieces of land that are above water. However, this is not their only habitat, as they are able to live in most cities that lie in the shallower areas of the oceans and lakes. This variation is characterized by their permeable skin, unique hearing, biphasic lifestyle, and their ability to undergo drastic metamorphosis. This variation has many differences, but they are able to live both with other Thalassans and well among themselves. Many Saporans do tend to live further away from standard Thalassan society, leading to complications in social and cultural exchanges.

== Social Structures and Community ==

Early Thalassan History: Early in Pelagia the oceans were separated by fear and differences. The many variations of Thalassan led to such separation that the word Thalassan did not exist for much of Pelagia's history, they used different words to classify each other. This is where the existence of names like: Tiburan, Neptan, Koppo, and all the other names for intraspecific variation came to be as they were used for these separate tribes. Those words are not used often anymore as the more united Thalassan is much more popular, but older Thalassans still tend to prefer the distinction. These early tribes in Pelagia are long sense disbanded, but the ripple of the early waring periods of the tribes still affects modern Thalassan society. Groups like the Tiburon, the Valis, and the Koppo still benefit from their early dominance on Pelagia. The wealth they accumulated in those times still benefits their children and much of society is still dominated by these groups. Even though the world is not swayed by war and conflict anymore, those that are the strongest, fastest, and deadly still have more opportunities. Beauty standards, popular culture, fashion, and jobs still tend to be swayed by those ideas.

Pelagia holds many cities, all at varying depth and location to accommodate the many different variations. Variations that prefer depth and cold live in cities closer to the poles in the many trenches that carve Pelagia's surface, variations that prefer warmth live closer to he equator at floating surface cities. The variations that prefer to live in wetlands tend to live in the more rural patches of land that speckle the planet. However, the capital city of Pelagia named Coralia houses the widest variations of Thalassan and even many Abyssals.

Thalassan government operates as a partial representative democracy. Each member representing their own field, from engineering to arts. The members of this large council of leaders is decided by a series of tests according to their own fields and public voting, the combination is used to decide who would be the perfect pick. Issues and decisions are tackled by this group of leaders, each providing their perspective and view of how to make the perfect decision, this leads to many decisions taking a very long time. Each term of ruling lasts a short 42 years.

Families in the past were communally raised, and given independance as soon as a child was mature enough to make their own decision to leave or stay. Some Thalassans still do this, but a rising trend due to the individualistic nature of capitalism is a more closed off family structure. With two parents raising their children and once mature that child is forced out to begin their own path but still tied to their family.

== Religion and Spirituality ==
Thalassan's desire for perfectionism has left their previous spiritualist beliefs behind, belief in invisible forces like in religion or spiritualism is not popular, but it still does exist. Few Thalassans still truly believe but the most popular form of spiritualism is a form of Animism that revolves around the currents, waves, maelstroms, the sun, and their three moons. They believe each of these things along with other natural phenomena have their own will, that their is intention behind the chaos. That entropy itself is achieved through will. There is no singular name for it but many refer the idea as being one of a "blue mind".

Currents are viewed as the push and pull of energy, a invisible force that will guide you to where you need to go but over reliance on it will leave you lost or crushed. The instinctual push and pull of life guides all, and you must move through those currents of life with intention or else the oceans intentions will overtake you. Travelers that get caught in currents may view it as the ocean telling them where they must go, and so they listen while they are within it.

Waves represent the ebb and flow of life, that no matter how large you scale you will crash back down eventually only to be built back up into the next wave. You are not the individual wave, but the whole ocean. You will rise high and crash down, but there is more rising and crashing to follow. This is a very important piece of Thalassan philosophy as with their long lifespans there is a lot of time to fail, and having the reminder that you will exist beyond those is important.

Maelstroms are violent whirlpools, they represent turbulent intersections of energies. Different wills battling against one another, and while destructive in their wake they cleanse the energies of that region of ocean. The churning of the water revitalizes the area and uplifts hidden things. If you come across one it is advised that you avoid and go around, but provide an offering to ensure safe passage. The contribution will assist in the revitalization of the water after it has cleared.

The sun's heating and evaporation is a large cause of many ocean currents, as well as generating winds, and evaporation driving storms. The sun is a vital part of what causes the ocean to not only move, but live. Solar bodies represent entropy with intent, the intent of these solar bodies generates entropy and chaos in all that it touches, uneven heating generates winds, winds generate random currents, those energies push, pull and react to each till they dissipate. Great movers and shakers that despite their almost divine form, each action they take eventually breaks down. Chaos consumes, but in that chaos there is beauty. A reminder that no matter how large or powerful you are, or how small and weak all actions lead to the same result, ever echoing chaos and entropy. Each individual themselves is nothing more than the energy that came before, every action is outputting that energy that they are, and even long after they are gone the energy they put out will still be moving and transferring somewhere. No matter what even if you die, you actions will not, their impact will ripple through the universe forever. As energy can never be destroyed.

The three moons on Pelagia have immense spiritualistic meaning. The moons themselves create the chaotic and turbulent ocean that Pelagia holds, the push and pull against each other to create unique tides and waves every day. The three moons are sisters, their names are Tirina, Shura, and Mira. Mira represents the reflection of the Thalassan people, a reflection of their intent and will. Shura represents logic and stability, she is known to have the most stable orbit with it barely moving even a degree off the equator for as long as its been recorded. Tirina represents destruction, she is blackened by the ash of many asteroids and she is believed to be the cause of many tsunamis destructive currents and maelstroms. She is viewed to be Pelagia's anger. Each moon has different meanings at each phase with their new and full variations. During a full moon Mira is said to be reflecting the joy of the Pelagian people, and that she is providing them a feast, as hunting is most efficient in the bright light of the full moon. A full moon for Shura means that the oceans will be calm, and that tranquility is approaching. Tirina at a full moon represents a dangerous ocean, and that she wishes to watch as beings are crushed beneath her waves. New moons always have an ominous meaning behind them but are inverses of their full phase version.

== Technology and Science ==

Thalassan technology, naturally, integrates water into many of its components. From thermal regulation systems to immensely powerful hydraulics to jet propulsion, Thalassans have figured out how to use water to solve almost any engineering problem, creating an incredibly diverse set of devices and machinery based in the principles of the ocean surrounding them.

A notable problem Thalassans have to work around is waterproofing, as seawater can mercilessly erode anything given enough time. Two competing schools of thought exist with regard to solving this issue, with commercial products insisting the superiority of both: making vulnerable systems watertight or making all components compatible with the water around them.

Modern Thalassan magic tends to be harnessed through very specialized pieces of technology, allowing for control and adjustment to protect the user and allow for optimization. These devices tend to be tailored to the individual using them, with designs ranging from glove-like arm covers to remote mechs (all with a focus on allowing free flow around the user).

Major Thalassan cities and universities host frequent inventing, engineering, and robotics competitions. Those who win these competitions are awarded with massive status and opportunity, though perceived failures are punished with equal intensity.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Thalassans have a rather simple sense of fashion. Most civilians prefer lighter clothing of thinner, flowy fabric, a specific type of material that will not hinder their movement but instead grant them ease when swimming while still being considerably fashionable and expressive, even with rich, fancier appearances. Those of higher ranking enforce a more strict form of attire to uphold proper projection and ensure member safety with hydrodynamic gear/outfits (lightweight). These individuals also carry badges on their person, establishing a ranking of position in said company/division. Overall, this leads their attire to be less expressive in comparison to others but still maintains function— if not better. Occasionally, Thalassans hold scheduled seasonal fashion cycles to determine appropriate wear. They create their clothing with what their own world of water offers them. Marine biomass, extracting biopolymers from kelp and seaweed, using silky byssus threads to make sea silk— they use anything at their disposal, often including trade from offworld collaborators.

== Occupations ==

Thalassans find work in an incredibly wide variety of fields, embracing their goal of perfection in just about any occupation they have access to. Those in lower social positions often are restricted to more menial (yet still essential) tasks, where training can often run within families due to the costs associated with professional schooling. Those in higher social positions find themselves at the forefront of their chosen fields, with common aspirations including technological research, engineering design, and academia at large.

Many Thalassan jobs are confined to Pelagia, owing to the uniquely aquatic environment that many individuals find themselves performing best in. Those who do choose to work off-planet are usually at the top of their social spheres, and strive to be seen as leaders in their positions.

An incredibly common feature of most Thalassan workplaces is the implementation of a ranking system among each occupation. Each individual is ranked according to factors like overall performance, efficiency, and reliability, with constant updates as the day progresses. An individual's ranking determines many things about their life, influencing their social standing, pay levels, and ability to participate in the government, with occupational ranking being a major factor in deciding members of the governing council.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

Thalassan space travel is a highly regulated matter in order to uphold the carefully-curated image of Pelagian society with for rest of the known worlds. Most planetary access is through spaceports on the Lightscale Islands, which also tend to act as visitor and business hubs for this reason, though some specialized ports can be found deeper in the cities (such as the Council's Port in Coralia). Tourism tends to be restricted to spaces near the surface of the Lucent Stratum, where breathing infrastructure is most prevalent; however, visitors may gain additional access through a combination of competency examinations and research relevance.

Thalassan spacecraft tend to be very nautical in nature, taking their inspirations from a combination of seafaring vessels and marine life. In addition to space travel, most native Thalassan vessels are also equipped for aquatic travel, allowing unique access to the smaller underwater ports which are also used for domestic travel around Pelagia. Transportation is largely privately-owned, whether by individuals or corporations, but those vessels which are owned by the Thalassan government are grand and pristine, offering immense travel capabilities (though often used for little more than ceremony).

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

The word Thalassan is relatively new—for much of their history, divisions into each of the Thalassan subspecies were far more common, and some of the oldest Thalassans still tend to use these to describe the world around them.

Old money in the Thalassan social stratification is largely based on evolutionary measures/success (i.e., killer whales, large octopi), while new money tends to have come from unique innovation and technological usefulness (i.e., krill being good with smaller electronics).

The obsession with ranking begins incredibly young, with school ranking being an incredibly competitive pursuit as early as primary school. Senior class rankings are even used to award an honorary position among the council to prepare these students for their future pursuits.

Each group's ranking system has an intricate and unique algorithm to determine where individuals will be placed, with factors ranging from concrete research contributions to peer review statistics.

Rankings are updated in real time as events carry on, and are largely accessed online. Specialized physical leaderboards exist around Coralia, with professional centers displaying their own top 1% and a grand leaderboard displaying the top 5 members of each profession outside the Hall of Perfection.

Thalassan life is incredibly regular, with many individuals carrying out an optimized schedule that they have crafted over many years. To disrupt this schedule is a major faux pas in the upper echelons of society.

Each year, Coralia hosts a festival known as The Day of Advancement, celebrating the progress and achievements made that year in Thalassan society and highlighting the most prolific contributors to that success.

The badges worn by those in Thalassan upper society denote their positioning within society and how close to perfection they have achieved. Each additional line added to the fractal-like patterning on them demonstrates even greater lifetime achievement.

== Notable Locations ==

===The Lightscale Islands===
The Lightscale Islands are the artificial island-like structures scattered around Pelagia's otherwise mostly oceanic surface which mark the uppermost access points to most major cities. Due to their nature as rare patches of dry land, they serve as the planet's major travel hubs, and the most common routes in and out of Thalassan society. Though the land itself is limited, there are major communities between the islands and the cities proper with significant air infrastructure to allow for collaborative work to be done between Thalassans and visitors. These areas see some of the highest performances of Thalassan perfection culture (second only to the capital, Coralia), with constant cleaning and upkeep involved in ensuring an outward image of perfection.

===Coralia===
Coralia is the capital city of Pelagia, and the largest city in the Lucent Stratum. Its Lightscale Island is the most significant planetary hub on Pelagia, with many businesses having operating centers there, though access further into the city is heavily restricted to only the finest, most competent individuals. At the city's center is the Hall of Perfection, which acts as the seat of the Thalassan government and is where the ruling council meets. Surrounding the central chambers is a sprawling administrative complex, where many of the minutiae of Thalassan existence are dictated. Much of the rest of the city serves as a research hub, allowing the members of the council to spend their non-governing time contributing to the growth of their individual fields. The city is by far the most orderly space on Pelagia on every level, from the intense cleanliness measures to its overall hub-and-spokes design dividing the space into clear regions based on occupation.

===Saltspray Plateau===
The Saltspray Plateau is a major hub of Thalassan industry, and the largest city of the Twilight Stratum. This space receives comparatively few outside visitors, with the majority of infrastructure designed for Thalassan locals to navigate most easily. The city has a constant hustle and bustle, leaving few quiet moments for residents. The more industrial sectors tend to focus predominantly on supporting on-world resources, including manufacturing facilities for designs produced in upper layers and maintenance support centers for the rest of the planet. The leisure sectors, on the other hand, are well-known for their neverending nightlife (in part sustained due to the lower light levels at these depths), drawing attention from across Thalassan society to give a break from the stress that expectations of perfection can bring.

===The Great Barriers===
The divisions of the planet, the Strata separate Pelagia into almost different worlds despite being immediately adjacent to one another. The Great Barriers themselves exist to demarcate these divisions—though they do not actually block access from one side to another, they make clear the distinctions in expectations between the spaces. The Lucent-Twilight Barrier is quite active, and often exists largely for ceremonial and regulatory purposes than anything else. The Twilight-Noct Barrier, on the other hand, sits mostly abandoned on the edge of the Noct Stratum, as residents on either side tend to keep to themselves, with a sort of rust belt surrounding this space where ideas have either risen in the Thalassan ranks or been abandoned out of imperfections.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

Thalassans tend to maintain at least a working relationship with other species, as the resources and ideas that they can provide can prove quite useful in the advancement of perfection on Pelagia. However, this connection tends to be at the uppermost level in both societies, and Thalassans tend to focus primarily on their own success ahead of that of others. Some particular relations of note are listed below.

===Abyssal===
The Abyssal were once one of the many subspecies populating Pelagia's waters, though in the times before Thalassan unification they were already somewhat distant from the others by nature. Following the unification of the Thalassans and their growing focus on perfection, the Abyssal separated even more, withdrawing largely to the Noct Stratum where few Thalassans tended to go to avoid early Thalassan efforts to include them in their plans for unification. As such, the Abyssal tend to be viewed simply as notable outsiders among Thalassan society, though some have been acknowledged for tremendous potential in their fields (such as thermodynamic research or record-keeping). Despite this, they tend to be viewed with somewhat more trepidation than non-Pelagian outsiders, owing to the Noct Stratum's reputation for chaotic behavior and stories of lurking dangers.

===Aurelians===
A fellow society proud to maintain an orderly understanding of the universe and innovation, Thalassan attitudes tend to be quite favorable towards Aurelians, especially among those in higher positions on Pelagia. The flow of ideas and tehcnologies between Pelagia and the Eden Construct is quite common, and collaboration between the two is relatively common. Thalassans, however, are quite fond of the ability to control and harness magic, and thus the Aurelian aversion to magic proves somewhat troublesome in collaborative endeavors, leaving Thalassans with a burning feeling that they could be achieving more.

===Ferrans===
Thalassans look kindly upon Ferrans and their fellow dedication to the advancement of scientific research, and quite frequently engage in trade with them for the many resources they have access to. Some Frame designs have even been used to inspire independent Thalassan technologies in the past.

===Lagorans and Cervari===
Despite the technological prowess of the Lagorans, relations with the Thalassans have been mixed throughout history. The discovery of warpgate technology on Velora left a sour taste in the minds of many older Thalassans, who felt that it tarnished the reputation of Pelagia as the home of the most idealized technological development. However, following its initial introduction, those who were less inclined to hold a grudge became notable contributors to the more flowlike elements of warpgates (including optimized cooling systems and the use of waterproofing technology to shield the gates from the interstellar void), collaborating with individuals across many species and gaining major social capital for their success back on Pelagia. As a result, relations are now largely positive among younger Thalassans, though far more so with the Lagorans than the Cervari due to their technical expertise.

== Inspiration Images ==

<gallery>
File:Thalassan_landscape1.png|Thalassan landscape aesthetics!
File:Thalassan_landscape2.png|
File:Thalassan_landscape3.png|
File:Lightscale_arch.png|A concept for the Lightscale Islands.
File:Zora_arch.png|More general Thalassan architecture inspiration.
File:Thalassan_industry2.png|Thalassan industrial integration.
File:Thalassan_industry1.png|
File:Thalassan_space1.jpeg|Potential Thalassan bio-inspired spaceship design.
File:Thalassan_space2.jpeg|Potential Thalassan nautical spaceship design.
File:Novacorps_ranks.png|An idea similar to upper-class Thalassan ranking badges.
</gallery>

== Concept Art ==

<gallery>
File:Sonya_conceptref.png|Sonya Steele.
File:Maria_conceptref.png|Maria Steele, a Thalassan player character.
File:Arden_conceptref.jpg|Arden Steele, a rather physiologically abnormal Thalassan.
</gallery>

[[Category:Species]]

Thalassans

2026-06-06T19:55:53Z

MathNerd314: /* Inspiration Images */ Captioning + link fix

{{Species
| name = Species Name
| image = Placeholder.png

| homeworld = Pelagia
| habitats = Various stratified levels of the ocean
| traits = Extremely varied, but localized to fish and marine animal traits such as fins and gills
| writers = Nikki, Arc, Kay^2
}}

<blockquote>
''"Just as every molecule of water has its place in the machinery of the oceans around us, so too is each and every one of us instrumental to the world around us. Study your path well, and let us all do our part to maintain this beautiful operation." — speaker at a Thalassan graduation ceremony''
</blockquote>

Thalassans are an aquatic, humanoid species that varies widely from individual to individual, due to the explosive genetic diversity of marine life. Many have gills, fins, tails, scales, webbing, and other aquatic adaptations. They are a caste-stratified species denoted by the various depths at which individuals live on their homeworld, '''[[Pelagia]]'''. They are extremely technologically advanced and have been at the forefront of scientific advancement in known space. Their culture combines an almost oppressive work ethic with a deep thirst for knowledge. As a primarily aquatic species, one would imagine that their advancements would be limited, but instead, the opposite is true. Deeply passionate about their life pursuits, Thalassans are appreciated throughout known space as ambitious and competent in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn.

== Core Worldview ==

Thalassan society centers around the idea of perfection, and striving to attain it in every aspect of their lives. While there can be many differing ideas of what perfection can look like, resulting from the many different Thalassan subspecies and their priorities, the ultimate goal is to achieve harmony among these goals.

Such perfectionism is quite noticeable in the intense, almost oppressive work ethic of many Thalassans, regardless of their chosen field. Tasks are treated with great dedication, and timeliness is of great value, both inside and outside the workplace.

This passion for each individual's field also places a great emphasis on ambition and progress in one's achievements. Thalassans strive to be the leaders in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn. On a societal level, this has led to many advancements over time, cementing Pelagia as a hub of technology and research.

Lastly, this perfection finds itself reflected in the overall structure of Thalassan society, where order and stability are established as incredibly important concepts. This reverberates across many spaces, making changes to existing systems often slow to implement in order to preserve existing efforts to optimize them.

== Physiology and Design ==

Common traits found across many Thalassans include:

* Gills in some form
* Specialized sensory organs to allow for detection of electrical fields
* Fins
* Tails
* Scales
* Sharp teeth
* Fish eyes Webbing
* Tentacles and other species-specific features
Diet:

Thalassans are omnivorous, carnivorous, or herbivorous. Each variation has differing diets and nutrition requirements, leading to each city and region having 2-3 different cuisines naturally residing and originating in them based on the dominant Thalassan subspecies/variety.

Size and Age:

Size can vary drastically from 2ft tall (i.e. shrimp-based thalassans) all the way to 8ft tall (i.e. whale-based thalassans). Thalassans have some of the longest lifespans out of the other species universe, but their lifespans mainly are connected to what species variation they are. The average Thalassan lives anywhere from 200 - 500 years old, however some variations of Thalassan genetics are able to live anywhere into the 1000’s, with medical advancements being partially responsible for this extension of their lives.

Common Intraspecific Variation

Thalassans of many kinds can be found on Pelagia and her sister planets, even if there are drastic differences between some members within the same variation category based on what region or culture they originate from. Thalassans can be broadly classified into a number of sub-variations underneath the overarching umbrella of "Thalassan".

* The Tiburan
** This variation dominated in the early warring period of Pelagia. Now they find themselves dominating many fields, being known for their ambition and drive to constantly be moving forward-- whatever 'forward' means to them. This variation is characterized through their sharp rows of teeth, their sandpaper-like skin(dermal denticles), and sharp vision.
* The Neptan
** This variation is the most common, being able to be found in every environment on Pelagia. Being the most common, they are also the most diverse, with extreme differences being found in each region they reside in. This group made up most of the smaller sects of Thalassan in the warring period. This variation is characterized through their scales, lateral line system, swim bladder, and unique abilities per Neptan variation. For example, a Neptan whose lineage traces back to clownfish is able to change their biological sex through natural processes, and a Neptan found in the deeper water would commonly have bioluminescence. Connie Vixen - Lionfish Neptan and famous Pelagia talk show host
* The Crustan
** This variation can be found on Pelagia and every sister planet. They're known as the most adaptable Thalassan variation, being incredibly durable and strong. Crustan are able to live some of the longest lives of any Thalassan due to their adaptability and constitution, but the upkeep required to maintain themselves is extremely expensive. This variation is characterized by their chitinous exoskeleton, segmented bodies, larval stages, and many have only legs and no fins.
* The Koppo
** This variation is not the most common, but it is found in many academic fields, being known culturally for their values on academia. This variation is characterized by their many tentacles, ability to camouflage, their ink sac, and their beak.
* The Valis
** This variation is known for their larger than average sizes and for being especially sociable creatures. Valis tend to form close family bonds and deeper friendships, and thrive in fields that encourage communication and teamwork. This variation is characterized by their blowholes, size, lack of gills, smooth skin, and their many unique sensory organs.
* The Mylio
** This variation is most commonly known for their dances; they can be found in many entertainment fields, using their unique wing-like fins to entrance and entertain. This variation is characterized by their unique wing-like fins, horn-like projections, and a whip-like tail that can be either razored or venomous.
* The Usa
** This variation is known for their many colors and being the most similar to water itself. This variation is characterized by their bioluminescence, stinging cells, and extremely long natural lifespans.
* The Echino
** This variation is known for slow, methodical movements and decisions. This variation is characterized by their spiny skin, regenerative abilities, and water vascular system.
* The Saporans
** This variation is known for living on the few pieces of land that are above water. However, this is not their only habitat, as they are able to live in most cities that lie in the shallower areas of the oceans and lakes. This variation is characterized by their permeable skin, unique hearing, biphasic lifestyle, and their ability to undergo drastic metamorphosis. This variation has many differences, but they are able to live both with other Thalassans and well among themselves. Many Saporans do tend to live further away from standard Thalassan society, leading to complications in social and cultural exchanges.

== Social Structures and Community ==

Early Thalassan History: Early in Pelagia the oceans were separated by fear and differences. The many variations of Thalassan led to such separation that the word Thalassan did not exist for much of Pelagia's history, they used different words to classify each other. This is where the existence of names like: Tiburan, Neptan, Koppo, and all the other names for intraspecific variation came to be as they were used for these separate tribes. Those words are not used often anymore as the more united Thalassan is much more popular, but older Thalassans still tend to prefer the distinction. These early tribes in Pelagia are long sense disbanded, but the ripple of the early waring periods of the tribes still affects modern Thalassan society. Groups like the Tiburon, the Valis, and the Koppo still benefit from their early dominance on Pelagia. The wealth they accumulated in those times still benefits their children and much of society is still dominated by these groups. Even though the world is not swayed by war and conflict anymore, those that are the strongest, fastest, and deadly still have more opportunities. Beauty standards, popular culture, fashion, and jobs still tend to be swayed by those ideas.

Pelagia holds many cities, all at varying depth and location to accommodate the many different variations. Variations that prefer depth and cold live in cities closer to the poles in the many trenches that carve Pelagia's surface, variations that prefer warmth live closer to he equator at floating surface cities. The variations that prefer to live in wetlands tend to live in the more rural patches of land that speckle the planet. However, the capital city of Pelagia named Coralia houses the widest variations of Thalassan and even many Abyssals.

Thalassan government operates as a partial representative democracy. Each member representing their own field, from engineering to arts. The members of this large council of leaders is decided by a series of tests according to their own fields and public voting, the combination is used to decide who would be the perfect pick. Issues and decisions are tackled by this group of leaders, each providing their perspective and view of how to make the perfect decision, this leads to many decisions taking a very long time. Each term of ruling lasts a short 42 years.

Families in the past were communally raised, and given independance as soon as a child was mature enough to make their own decision to leave or stay. Some Thalassans still do this, but a rising trend due to the individualistic nature of capitalism is a more closed off family structure. With two parents raising their children and once mature that child is forced out to begin their own path but still tied to their family.

== Religion and Spirituality ==
Thalassan's desire for perfectionism has left their previous spiritualist beliefs behind, belief in invisible forces like in religion or spiritualism is not popular, but it still does exist. Few Thalassans still truly believe but the most popular form of spiritualism is a form of Animism that revolves around the currents, waves, maelstroms, the sun, and their three moons. They believe each of these things along with other natural phenomena have their own will, that their is intention behind the chaos. That entropy itself is achieved through will. There is no singular name for it but many refer the idea as being one of a "blue mind".

Currents are viewed as the push and pull of energy, a invisible force that will guide you to where you need to go but over reliance on it will leave you lost or crushed. The instinctual push and pull of life guides all, and you must move through those currents of life with intention or else the oceans intentions will overtake you. Travelers that get caught in currents may view it as the ocean telling them where they must go, and so they listen while they are within it.

Waves represent the ebb and flow of life, that no matter how large you scale you will crash back down eventually only to be built back up into the next wave. You are not the individual wave, but the whole ocean. You will rise high and crash down, but there is more rising and crashing to follow. This is a very important piece of Thalassan philosophy as with their long lifespans there is a lot of time to fail, and having the reminder that you will exist beyond those is important.

Maelstroms are violent whirlpools, they represent turbulent intersections of energies. Different wills battling against one another, and while destructive in their wake they cleanse the energies of that region of ocean. The churning of the water revitalizes the area and uplifts hidden things. If you come across one it is advised that you avoid and go around, but provide an offering to ensure safe passage. The contribution will assist in the revitalization of the water after it has cleared.

The sun's heating and evaporation is a large cause of many ocean currents, as well as generating winds, and evaporation driving storms. The sun is a vital part of what causes the ocean to not only move, but live. Solar bodies represent entropy with intent, the intent of these solar bodies generates entropy and chaos in all that it touches, uneven heating generates winds, winds generate random currents, those energies push, pull and react to each till they dissipate. Great movers and shakers that despite their almost divine form, each action they take eventually breaks down. Chaos consumes, but in that chaos there is beauty. A reminder that no matter how large or powerful you are, or how small and weak all actions lead to the same result, ever echoing chaos and entropy. Each individual themselves is nothing more than the energy that came before, every action is outputting that energy that they are, and even long after they are gone the energy they put out will still be moving and transferring somewhere. No matter what even if you die, you actions will not, their impact will ripple through the universe forever. As energy can never be destroyed.

The three moons on Pelagia have immense spiritualistic meaning. The moons themselves create the chaotic and turbulent ocean that Pelagia holds, the push and pull against each other to create unique tides and waves every day. The three moons are sisters, their names are Tirina, Shura, and Mira. Mira represents the reflection of the Thalassan people, a reflection of their intent and will. Shura represents logic and stability, she is known to have the most stable orbit with it barely moving even a degree off the equator for as long as its been recorded. Tirina represents destruction, she is blackened by the ash of many asteroids and she is believed to be the cause of many tsunamis destructive currents and maelstroms. She is viewed to be Pelagia's anger. Each moon has different meanings at each phase with their new and full variations. During a full moon Mira is said to be reflecting the joy of the Pelagian people, and that she is providing them a feast, as hunting is most efficient in the bright light of the full moon. A full moon for Shura means that the oceans will be calm, and that tranquility is approaching. Tirina at a full moon represents a dangerous ocean, and that she wishes to watch as beings are crushed beneath her waves. New moons always have an ominous meaning behind them but are inverses of their full phase version.

== Technology and Science ==

Thalassan technology, naturally, integrates water into many of its components. From thermal regulation systems to immensely powerful hydraulics to jet propulsion, Thalassans have figured out how to use water to solve almost any engineering problem, creating an incredibly diverse set of devices and machinery based in the principles of the ocean surrounding them.

A notable problem Thalassans have to work around is waterproofing, as seawater can mercilessly erode anything given enough time. Two competing schools of thought exist with regard to solving this issue, with commercial products insisting the superiority of both: making vulnerable systems watertight or making all components compatible with the water around them.

Modern Thalassan magic tends to be harnessed through very specialized pieces of technology, allowing for control and adjustment to protect the user and allow for optimization. These devices tend to be tailored to the individual using them, with designs ranging from glove-like arm covers to remote mechs (all with a focus on allowing free flow around the user).

Major Thalassan cities and universities host frequent inventing, engineering, and robotics competitions. Those who win these competitions are awarded with massive status and opportunity, though perceived failures are punished with equal intensity.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Thalassans have a rather simple sense of fashion. Most civilians prefer lighter clothing of thinner, flowy fabric, a specific type of material that will not hinder their movement but instead grant them ease when swimming while still being considerably fashionable and expressive, even with rich, fancier appearances. Those of higher ranking enforce a more strict form of attire to uphold proper projection and ensure member safety with hydrodynamic gear/outfits (lightweight). These individuals also carry badges on their person, establishing a ranking of position in said company/division. Overall, this leads their attire to be less expressive in comparison to others but still maintains function— if not better. Occasionally, Thalassans hold scheduled seasonal fashion cycles to determine appropriate wear. They create their clothing with what their own world of water offers them. Marine biomass, extracting biopolymers from kelp and seaweed, using silky byssus threads to make sea silk— they use anything at their disposal, often including trade from offworld collaborators.

== Occupations ==

Thalassans find work in an incredibly wide variety of fields, embracing their goal of perfection in just about any occupation they have access to. Those in lower social positions often are restricted to more menial (yet still essential) tasks, where training can often run within families due to the costs associated with professional schooling. Those in higher social positions find themselves at the forefront of their chosen fields, with common aspirations including technological research, engineering design, and academia at large.

Many Thalassan jobs are confined to Pelagia, owing to the uniquely aquatic environment that many individuals find themselves performing best in. Those who do choose to work off-planet are usually at the top of their social spheres, and strive to be seen as leaders in their positions.

An incredibly common feature of most Thalassan workplaces is the implementation of a ranking system among each occupation. Each individual is ranked according to factors like overall performance, efficiency, and reliability, with constant updates as the day progresses. An individual's ranking determines many things about their life, influencing their social standing, pay levels, and ability to participate in the government, with occupational ranking being a major factor in deciding members of the governing council.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

Thalassan space travel is a highly regulated matter in order to uphold the carefully-curated image of Pelagian society with for rest of the known worlds. Most planetary access is through spaceports on the Lightscale Islands, which also tend to act as visitor and business hubs for this reason, though some specialized ports can be found deeper in the cities (such as the Council's Port in Coralia). Tourism tends to be restricted to spaces near the surface of the Lucent Stratum, where breathing infrastructure is most prevalent; however, visitors may gain additional access through a combination of competency examinations and research relevance.

Thalassan spacecraft tend to be very nautical in nature, taking their inspirations from a combination of seafaring vessels and marine life. In addition to space travel, most native Thalassan vessels are also equipped for aquatic travel, allowing unique access to the smaller underwater ports which are also used for domestic travel around Pelagia. Transportation is largely privately-owned, whether by individuals or corporations, but those vessels which are owned by the Thalassan government are grand and pristine, offering immense travel capabilities (though often used for little more than ceremony).

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

The word Thalassan is relatively new—for much of their history, divisions into each of the Thalassan subspecies were far more common, and some of the oldest Thalassans still tend to use these to describe the world around them.

Old money in the Thalassan social stratification is largely based on evolutionary measures/success (i.e., killer whales, large octopi), while new money tends to have come from unique innovation and technological usefulness (i.e., krill being good with smaller electronics).

The obsession with ranking begins incredibly young, with school ranking being an incredibly competitive pursuit as early as primary school. Senior class rankings are even used to award an honorary position among the council to prepare these students for their future pursuits.

Each group's ranking system has an intricate and unique algorithm to determine where individuals will be placed, with factors ranging from concrete research contributions to peer review statistics.

Rankings are updated in real time as events carry on, and are largely accessed online. Specialized physical leaderboards exist around Coralia, with professional centers displaying their own top 1% and a grand leaderboard displaying the top 5 members of each profession outside the Hall of Perfection.

Thalassan life is incredibly regular, with many individuals carrying out an optimized schedule that they have crafted over many years. To disrupt this schedule is a major faux pas in the upper echelons of society.

Each year, Coralia hosts a festival known as The Day of Advancement, celebrating the progress and achievements made that year in Thalassan society and highlighting the most prolific contributors to that success.

The badges worn by those in Thalassan upper society denote their positioning within society and how close to perfection they have achieved. Each additional line added to the fractal-like patterning on them demonstrates even greater lifetime achievement.

== Notable Locations ==

===The Lightscale Islands===
The Lightscale Islands are the artificial island-like structures scattered around Pelagia's otherwise mostly oceanic surface which mark the uppermost access points to most major cities. Due to their nature as rare patches of dry land, they serve as the planet's major travel hubs, and the most common routes in and out of Thalassan society. Though the land itself is limited, there are major communities between the islands and the cities proper with significant air infrastructure to allow for collaborative work to be done between Thalassans and visitors. These areas see some of the highest performances of Thalassan perfection culture (second only to the capital, Coralia), with constant cleaning and upkeep involved in ensuring an outward image of perfection.

===Coralia===
Coralia is the capital city of Pelagia, and the largest city in the Lucent Stratum. Its Lightscale Island is the most significant planetary hub on Pelagia, with many businesses having operating centers there, though access further into the city is heavily restricted to only the finest, most competent individuals. At the city's center is the Hall of Perfection, which acts as the seat of the Thalassan government and is where the ruling council meets. Surrounding the central chambers is a sprawling administrative complex, where many of the minutiae of Thalassan existence are dictated. Much of the rest of the city serves as a research hub, allowing the members of the council to spend their non-governing time contributing to the growth of their individual fields. The city is by far the most orderly space on Pelagia on every level, from the intense cleanliness measures to its overall hub-and-spokes design dividing the space into clear regions based on occupation.

===Saltspray Plateau===
The Saltspray Plateau is a major hub of Thalassan industry, and the largest city of the Twilight Stratum. This space receives comparatively few outside visitors, with the majority of infrastructure designed for Thalassan locals to navigate most easily. The city has a constant hustle and bustle, leaving few quiet moments for residents. The more industrial sectors tend to focus predominantly on supporting on-world resources, including manufacturing facilities for designs produced in upper layers and maintenance support centers for the rest of the planet. The leisure sectors, on the other hand, are well-known for their neverending nightlife (in part sustained due to the lower light levels at these depths), drawing attention from across Thalassan society to give a break from the stress that expectations of perfection can bring.

===The Great Barriers===
The divisions of the planet, the Strata separate Pelagia into almost different worlds despite being immediately adjacent to one another. The Great Barriers themselves exist to demarcate these divisions—though they do not actually block access from one side to another, they make clear the distinctions in expectations between the spaces. The Lucent-Twilight Barrier is quite active, and often exists largely for ceremonial and regulatory purposes than anything else. The Twilight-Noct Barrier, on the other hand, sits mostly abandoned on the edge of the Noct Stratum, as residents on either side tend to keep to themselves, with a sort of rust belt surrounding this space where ideas have either risen in the Thalassan ranks or been abandoned out of imperfections.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

Thalassans tend to maintain at least a working relationship with other species, as the resources and ideas that they can provide can prove quite useful in the advancement of perfection on Pelagia. However, this connection tends to be at the uppermost level in both societies, and Thalassans tend to focus primarily on their own success ahead of that of others. Some particular relations of note are listed below.

===Abyssal===
The Abyssal were once one of the many subspecies populating Pelagia's waters, though in the times before Thalassan unification they were already somewhat distant from the others by nature. Following the unification of the Thalassans and their growing focus on perfection, the Abyssal separated even more, withdrawing largely to the Noct Stratum where few Thalassans tended to go to avoid early Thalassan efforts to include them in their plans for unification. As such, the Abyssal tend to be viewed simply as notable outsiders among Thalassan society, though some have been acknowledged for tremendous potential in their fields (such as thermodynamic research or record-keeping). Despite this, they tend to be viewed with somewhat more trepidation than non-Pelagian outsiders, owing to the Noct Stratum's reputation for chaotic behavior and stories of lurking dangers.

===Aurelians===
A fellow society proud to maintain an orderly understanding of the universe and innovation, Thalassan attitudes tend to be quite favorable towards Aurelians, especially among those in higher positions on Pelagia. The flow of ideas and tehcnologies between Pelagia and the Eden Construct is quite common, and collaboration between the two is relatively common. Thalassans, however, are quite fond of the ability to control and harness magic, and thus the Aurelian aversion to magic proves somewhat troublesome in collaborative endeavors, leaving Thalassans with a burning feeling that they could be achieving more.

===Ferrans===
Thalassans look kindly upon Ferrans and their fellow dedication to the advancement of scientific research, and quite frequently engage in trade with them for the many resources they have access to. Some Frame designs have even been used to inspire independent Thalassan technologies in the past.

===Lagorans and Cervari===
Despite the technological prowess of the Lagorans, relations with the Thalassans have been mixed throughout history. The discovery of warpgate technology on Velora left a sour taste in the minds of many older Thalassans, who felt that it tarnished the reputation of Pelagia as the home of the most idealized technological development. However, following its initial introduction, those who were less inclined to hold a grudge became notable contributors to the more flowlike elements of warpgates (including optimized cooling systems and the use of waterproofing technology to shield the gates from the interstellar void), collaborating with individuals across many species and gaining major social capital for their success back on Pelagia. As a result, relations are now largely positive among younger Thalassans, though far more so with the Lagorans than the Cervari due to their technical expertise.

== Inspiration Images ==

<gallery>
File:Thalassan_landscape1.png|Thalassan landscape aesthetics!
File:Thalassan_landscape2.png|
File:Thalassan_landscape3.png|
File:Lightscale_arch.png|A concept for the Lightscale Islands.
File:Zora_arch.png|More general Thalassan architecture inspiration.
File:Thalassan_industry2.png|Thalassan industrial integration.
File:Thalassan_industry1.png|
File:Thalassan_space1.jpeg|Potential Thalassan bio-inspired spaceship design.
File:Thalassan_space2.jpeg|Potential Thalassan nautical spaceship design.
File:Novacorps_ranks.png|An idea similar to upper-class Thalassan ranking badges.
</gallery>

== Concept Art ==

<gallery>
File:Sonya_conceptref.png|Sonya Steele.
File:Maria_conceptref.png|Maria Steele, a Thalassan player character.
File:Arden_conceptref.jpg|Arden Steele, a rather physiologically abnormal Thalassan.
</gallery>

[[Category:Species]]

File:Novacorps ranks.png

2026-06-06T19:50:11Z

MathNerd314: Re-upload of inspiration image for Thalassan upper-class badges.

== Summary ==
Re-upload of inspiration image for Thalassan upper-class badges.

Thalassans

2026-06-06T19:48:43Z

MathNerd314: Setting up galleries for inspiration and concept art!

{{Species
| name = Species Name
| image = Placeholder.png

| homeworld = Pelagia
| habitats = Various stratified levels of the ocean
| traits = Extremely varied, but localized to fish and marine animal traits such as fins and gills
| writers = Nikki, Arc, Kay^2
}}

<blockquote>
''"Just as every molecule of water has its place in the machinery of the oceans around us, so too is each and every one of us instrumental to the world around us. Study your path well, and let us all do our part to maintain this beautiful operation." — speaker at a Thalassan graduation ceremony''
</blockquote>

Thalassans are an aquatic, humanoid species that varies widely from individual to individual, due to the explosive genetic diversity of marine life. Many have gills, fins, tails, scales, webbing, and other aquatic adaptations. They are a caste-stratified species denoted by the various depths at which individuals live on their homeworld, '''[[Pelagia]]'''. They are extremely technologically advanced and have been at the forefront of scientific advancement in known space. Their culture combines an almost oppressive work ethic with a deep thirst for knowledge. As a primarily aquatic species, one would imagine that their advancements would be limited, but instead, the opposite is true. Deeply passionate about their life pursuits, Thalassans are appreciated throughout known space as ambitious and competent in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn.

== Core Worldview ==

Thalassan society centers around the idea of perfection, and striving to attain it in every aspect of their lives. While there can be many differing ideas of what perfection can look like, resulting from the many different Thalassan subspecies and their priorities, the ultimate goal is to achieve harmony among these goals.

Such perfectionism is quite noticeable in the intense, almost oppressive work ethic of many Thalassans, regardless of their chosen field. Tasks are treated with great dedication, and timeliness is of great value, both inside and outside the workplace.

This passion for each individual's field also places a great emphasis on ambition and progress in one's achievements. Thalassans strive to be the leaders in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn. On a societal level, this has led to many advancements over time, cementing Pelagia as a hub of technology and research.

Lastly, this perfection finds itself reflected in the overall structure of Thalassan society, where order and stability are established as incredibly important concepts. This reverberates across many spaces, making changes to existing systems often slow to implement in order to preserve existing efforts to optimize them.

== Physiology and Design ==

Common traits found across many Thalassans include:

* Gills in some form
* Specialized sensory organs to allow for detection of electrical fields
* Fins
* Tails
* Scales
* Sharp teeth
* Fish eyes Webbing
* Tentacles and other species-specific features
Diet:

Thalassans are omnivorous, carnivorous, or herbivorous. Each variation has differing diets and nutrition requirements, leading to each city and region having 2-3 different cuisines naturally residing and originating in them based on the dominant Thalassan subspecies/variety.

Size and Age:

Size can vary drastically from 2ft tall (i.e. shrimp-based thalassans) all the way to 8ft tall (i.e. whale-based thalassans). Thalassans have some of the longest lifespans out of the other species universe, but their lifespans mainly are connected to what species variation they are. The average Thalassan lives anywhere from 200 - 500 years old, however some variations of Thalassan genetics are able to live anywhere into the 1000’s, with medical advancements being partially responsible for this extension of their lives.

Common Intraspecific Variation

Thalassans of many kinds can be found on Pelagia and her sister planets, even if there are drastic differences between some members within the same variation category based on what region or culture they originate from. Thalassans can be broadly classified into a number of sub-variations underneath the overarching umbrella of "Thalassan".

* The Tiburan
** This variation dominated in the early warring period of Pelagia. Now they find themselves dominating many fields, being known for their ambition and drive to constantly be moving forward-- whatever 'forward' means to them. This variation is characterized through their sharp rows of teeth, their sandpaper-like skin(dermal denticles), and sharp vision.
* The Neptan
** This variation is the most common, being able to be found in every environment on Pelagia. Being the most common, they are also the most diverse, with extreme differences being found in each region they reside in. This group made up most of the smaller sects of Thalassan in the warring period. This variation is characterized through their scales, lateral line system, swim bladder, and unique abilities per Neptan variation. For example, a Neptan whose lineage traces back to clownfish is able to change their biological sex through natural processes, and a Neptan found in the deeper water would commonly have bioluminescence. Connie Vixen - Lionfish Neptan and famous Pelagia talk show host
* The Crustan
** This variation can be found on Pelagia and every sister planet. They're known as the most adaptable Thalassan variation, being incredibly durable and strong. Crustan are able to live some of the longest lives of any Thalassan due to their adaptability and constitution, but the upkeep required to maintain themselves is extremely expensive. This variation is characterized by their chitinous exoskeleton, segmented bodies, larval stages, and many have only legs and no fins.
* The Koppo
** This variation is not the most common, but it is found in many academic fields, being known culturally for their values on academia. This variation is characterized by their many tentacles, ability to camouflage, their ink sac, and their beak.
* The Valis
** This variation is known for their larger than average sizes and for being especially sociable creatures. Valis tend to form close family bonds and deeper friendships, and thrive in fields that encourage communication and teamwork. This variation is characterized by their blowholes, size, lack of gills, smooth skin, and their many unique sensory organs.
* The Mylio
** This variation is most commonly known for their dances; they can be found in many entertainment fields, using their unique wing-like fins to entrance and entertain. This variation is characterized by their unique wing-like fins, horn-like projections, and a whip-like tail that can be either razored or venomous.
* The Usa
** This variation is known for their many colors and being the most similar to water itself. This variation is characterized by their bioluminescence, stinging cells, and extremely long natural lifespans.
* The Echino
** This variation is known for slow, methodical movements and decisions. This variation is characterized by their spiny skin, regenerative abilities, and water vascular system.
* The Saporans
** This variation is known for living on the few pieces of land that are above water. However, this is not their only habitat, as they are able to live in most cities that lie in the shallower areas of the oceans and lakes. This variation is characterized by their permeable skin, unique hearing, biphasic lifestyle, and their ability to undergo drastic metamorphosis. This variation has many differences, but they are able to live both with other Thalassans and well among themselves. Many Saporans do tend to live further away from standard Thalassan society, leading to complications in social and cultural exchanges.

== Social Structures and Community ==

Early Thalassan History: Early in Pelagia the oceans were separated by fear and differences. The many variations of Thalassan led to such separation that the word Thalassan did not exist for much of Pelagia's history, they used different words to classify each other. This is where the existence of names like: Tiburan, Neptan, Koppo, and all the other names for intraspecific variation came to be as they were used for these separate tribes. Those words are not used often anymore as the more united Thalassan is much more popular, but older Thalassans still tend to prefer the distinction. These early tribes in Pelagia are long sense disbanded, but the ripple of the early waring periods of the tribes still affects modern Thalassan society. Groups like the Tiburon, the Valis, and the Koppo still benefit from their early dominance on Pelagia. The wealth they accumulated in those times still benefits their children and much of society is still dominated by these groups. Even though the world is not swayed by war and conflict anymore, those that are the strongest, fastest, and deadly still have more opportunities. Beauty standards, popular culture, fashion, and jobs still tend to be swayed by those ideas.

Pelagia holds many cities, all at varying depth and location to accommodate the many different variations. Variations that prefer depth and cold live in cities closer to the poles in the many trenches that carve Pelagia's surface, variations that prefer warmth live closer to he equator at floating surface cities. The variations that prefer to live in wetlands tend to live in the more rural patches of land that speckle the planet. However, the capital city of Pelagia named Coralia houses the widest variations of Thalassan and even many Abyssals.

Thalassan government operates as a partial representative democracy. Each member representing their own field, from engineering to arts. The members of this large council of leaders is decided by a series of tests according to their own fields and public voting, the combination is used to decide who would be the perfect pick. Issues and decisions are tackled by this group of leaders, each providing their perspective and view of how to make the perfect decision, this leads to many decisions taking a very long time. Each term of ruling lasts a short 42 years.

Families in the past were communally raised, and given independance as soon as a child was mature enough to make their own decision to leave or stay. Some Thalassans still do this, but a rising trend due to the individualistic nature of capitalism is a more closed off family structure. With two parents raising their children and once mature that child is forced out to begin their own path but still tied to their family.

== Religion and Spirituality ==
Thalassan's desire for perfectionism has left their previous spiritualist beliefs behind, belief in invisible forces like in religion or spiritualism is not popular, but it still does exist. Few Thalassans still truly believe but the most popular form of spiritualism is a form of Animism that revolves around the currents, waves, maelstroms, the sun, and their three moons. They believe each of these things along with other natural phenomena have their own will, that their is intention behind the chaos. That entropy itself is achieved through will. There is no singular name for it but many refer the idea as being one of a "blue mind".

Currents are viewed as the push and pull of energy, a invisible force that will guide you to where you need to go but over reliance on it will leave you lost or crushed. The instinctual push and pull of life guides all, and you must move through those currents of life with intention or else the oceans intentions will overtake you. Travelers that get caught in currents may view it as the ocean telling them where they must go, and so they listen while they are within it.

Waves represent the ebb and flow of life, that no matter how large you scale you will crash back down eventually only to be built back up into the next wave. You are not the individual wave, but the whole ocean. You will rise high and crash down, but there is more rising and crashing to follow. This is a very important piece of Thalassan philosophy as with their long lifespans there is a lot of time to fail, and having the reminder that you will exist beyond those is important.

Maelstroms are violent whirlpools, they represent turbulent intersections of energies. Different wills battling against one another, and while destructive in their wake they cleanse the energies of that region of ocean. The churning of the water revitalizes the area and uplifts hidden things. If you come across one it is advised that you avoid and go around, but provide an offering to ensure safe passage. The contribution will assist in the revitalization of the water after it has cleared.

The sun's heating and evaporation is a large cause of many ocean currents, as well as generating winds, and evaporation driving storms. The sun is a vital part of what causes the ocean to not only move, but live. Solar bodies represent entropy with intent, the intent of these solar bodies generates entropy and chaos in all that it touches, uneven heating generates winds, winds generate random currents, those energies push, pull and react to each till they dissipate. Great movers and shakers that despite their almost divine form, each action they take eventually breaks down. Chaos consumes, but in that chaos there is beauty. A reminder that no matter how large or powerful you are, or how small and weak all actions lead to the same result, ever echoing chaos and entropy. Each individual themselves is nothing more than the energy that came before, every action is outputting that energy that they are, and even long after they are gone the energy they put out will still be moving and transferring somewhere. No matter what even if you die, you actions will not, their impact will ripple through the universe forever. As energy can never be destroyed.

The three moons on Pelagia have immense spiritualistic meaning. The moons themselves create the chaotic and turbulent ocean that Pelagia holds, the push and pull against each other to create unique tides and waves every day. The three moons are sisters, their names are Tirina, Shura, and Mira. Mira represents the reflection of the Thalassan people, a reflection of their intent and will. Shura represents logic and stability, she is known to have the most stable orbit with it barely moving even a degree off the equator for as long as its been recorded. Tirina represents destruction, she is blackened by the ash of many asteroids and she is believed to be the cause of many tsunamis destructive currents and maelstroms. She is viewed to be Pelagia's anger. Each moon has different meanings at each phase with their new and full variations. During a full moon Mira is said to be reflecting the joy of the Pelagian people, and that she is providing them a feast, as hunting is most efficient in the bright light of the full moon. A full moon for Shura means that the oceans will be calm, and that tranquility is approaching. Tirina at a full moon represents a dangerous ocean, and that she wishes to watch as beings are crushed beneath her waves. New moons always have an ominous meaning behind them but are inverses of their full phase version.

== Technology and Science ==

Thalassan technology, naturally, integrates water into many of its components. From thermal regulation systems to immensely powerful hydraulics to jet propulsion, Thalassans have figured out how to use water to solve almost any engineering problem, creating an incredibly diverse set of devices and machinery based in the principles of the ocean surrounding them.

A notable problem Thalassans have to work around is waterproofing, as seawater can mercilessly erode anything given enough time. Two competing schools of thought exist with regard to solving this issue, with commercial products insisting the superiority of both: making vulnerable systems watertight or making all components compatible with the water around them.

Modern Thalassan magic tends to be harnessed through very specialized pieces of technology, allowing for control and adjustment to protect the user and allow for optimization. These devices tend to be tailored to the individual using them, with designs ranging from glove-like arm covers to remote mechs (all with a focus on allowing free flow around the user).

Major Thalassan cities and universities host frequent inventing, engineering, and robotics competitions. Those who win these competitions are awarded with massive status and opportunity, though perceived failures are punished with equal intensity.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Thalassans have a rather simple sense of fashion. Most civilians prefer lighter clothing of thinner, flowy fabric, a specific type of material that will not hinder their movement but instead grant them ease when swimming while still being considerably fashionable and expressive, even with rich, fancier appearances. Those of higher ranking enforce a more strict form of attire to uphold proper projection and ensure member safety with hydrodynamic gear/outfits (lightweight). These individuals also carry badges on their person, establishing a ranking of position in said company/division. Overall, this leads their attire to be less expressive in comparison to others but still maintains function— if not better. Occasionally, Thalassans hold scheduled seasonal fashion cycles to determine appropriate wear. They create their clothing with what their own world of water offers them. Marine biomass, extracting biopolymers from kelp and seaweed, using silky byssus threads to make sea silk— they use anything at their disposal, often including trade from offworld collaborators.

== Occupations ==

Thalassans find work in an incredibly wide variety of fields, embracing their goal of perfection in just about any occupation they have access to. Those in lower social positions often are restricted to more menial (yet still essential) tasks, where training can often run within families due to the costs associated with professional schooling. Those in higher social positions find themselves at the forefront of their chosen fields, with common aspirations including technological research, engineering design, and academia at large.

Many Thalassan jobs are confined to Pelagia, owing to the uniquely aquatic environment that many individuals find themselves performing best in. Those who do choose to work off-planet are usually at the top of their social spheres, and strive to be seen as leaders in their positions.

An incredibly common feature of most Thalassan workplaces is the implementation of a ranking system among each occupation. Each individual is ranked according to factors like overall performance, efficiency, and reliability, with constant updates as the day progresses. An individual's ranking determines many things about their life, influencing their social standing, pay levels, and ability to participate in the government, with occupational ranking being a major factor in deciding members of the governing council.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

Thalassan space travel is a highly regulated matter in order to uphold the carefully-curated image of Pelagian society with for rest of the known worlds. Most planetary access is through spaceports on the Lightscale Islands, which also tend to act as visitor and business hubs for this reason, though some specialized ports can be found deeper in the cities (such as the Council's Port in Coralia). Tourism tends to be restricted to spaces near the surface of the Lucent Stratum, where breathing infrastructure is most prevalent; however, visitors may gain additional access through a combination of competency examinations and research relevance.

Thalassan spacecraft tend to be very nautical in nature, taking their inspirations from a combination of seafaring vessels and marine life. In addition to space travel, most native Thalassan vessels are also equipped for aquatic travel, allowing unique access to the smaller underwater ports which are also used for domestic travel around Pelagia. Transportation is largely privately-owned, whether by individuals or corporations, but those vessels which are owned by the Thalassan government are grand and pristine, offering immense travel capabilities (though often used for little more than ceremony).

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

The word Thalassan is relatively new—for much of their history, divisions into each of the Thalassan subspecies were far more common, and some of the oldest Thalassans still tend to use these to describe the world around them.

Old money in the Thalassan social stratification is largely based on evolutionary measures/success (i.e., killer whales, large octopi), while new money tends to have come from unique innovation and technological usefulness (i.e., krill being good with smaller electronics).

The obsession with ranking begins incredibly young, with school ranking being an incredibly competitive pursuit as early as primary school. Senior class rankings are even used to award an honorary position among the council to prepare these students for their future pursuits.

Each group's ranking system has an intricate and unique algorithm to determine where individuals will be placed, with factors ranging from concrete research contributions to peer review statistics.

Rankings are updated in real time as events carry on, and are largely accessed online. Specialized physical leaderboards exist around Coralia, with professional centers displaying their own top 1% and a grand leaderboard displaying the top 5 members of each profession outside the Hall of Perfection.

Thalassan life is incredibly regular, with many individuals carrying out an optimized schedule that they have crafted over many years. To disrupt this schedule is a major faux pas in the upper echelons of society.

Each year, Coralia hosts a festival known as The Day of Advancement, celebrating the progress and achievements made that year in Thalassan society and highlighting the most prolific contributors to that success.

The badges worn by those in Thalassan upper society denote their positioning within society and how close to perfection they have achieved. Each additional line added to the fractal-like patterning on them demonstrates even greater lifetime achievement.

== Notable Locations ==

===The Lightscale Islands===
The Lightscale Islands are the artificial island-like structures scattered around Pelagia's otherwise mostly oceanic surface which mark the uppermost access points to most major cities. Due to their nature as rare patches of dry land, they serve as the planet's major travel hubs, and the most common routes in and out of Thalassan society. Though the land itself is limited, there are major communities between the islands and the cities proper with significant air infrastructure to allow for collaborative work to be done between Thalassans and visitors. These areas see some of the highest performances of Thalassan perfection culture (second only to the capital, Coralia), with constant cleaning and upkeep involved in ensuring an outward image of perfection.

===Coralia===
Coralia is the capital city of Pelagia, and the largest city in the Lucent Stratum. Its Lightscale Island is the most significant planetary hub on Pelagia, with many businesses having operating centers there, though access further into the city is heavily restricted to only the finest, most competent individuals. At the city's center is the Hall of Perfection, which acts as the seat of the Thalassan government and is where the ruling council meets. Surrounding the central chambers is a sprawling administrative complex, where many of the minutiae of Thalassan existence are dictated. Much of the rest of the city serves as a research hub, allowing the members of the council to spend their non-governing time contributing to the growth of their individual fields. The city is by far the most orderly space on Pelagia on every level, from the intense cleanliness measures to its overall hub-and-spokes design dividing the space into clear regions based on occupation.

===Saltspray Plateau===
The Saltspray Plateau is a major hub of Thalassan industry, and the largest city of the Twilight Stratum. This space receives comparatively few outside visitors, with the majority of infrastructure designed for Thalassan locals to navigate most easily. The city has a constant hustle and bustle, leaving few quiet moments for residents. The more industrial sectors tend to focus predominantly on supporting on-world resources, including manufacturing facilities for designs produced in upper layers and maintenance support centers for the rest of the planet. The leisure sectors, on the other hand, are well-known for their neverending nightlife (in part sustained due to the lower light levels at these depths), drawing attention from across Thalassan society to give a break from the stress that expectations of perfection can bring.

===The Great Barriers===
The divisions of the planet, the Strata separate Pelagia into almost different worlds despite being immediately adjacent to one another. The Great Barriers themselves exist to demarcate these divisions—though they do not actually block access from one side to another, they make clear the distinctions in expectations between the spaces. The Lucent-Twilight Barrier is quite active, and often exists largely for ceremonial and regulatory purposes than anything else. The Twilight-Noct Barrier, on the other hand, sits mostly abandoned on the edge of the Noct Stratum, as residents on either side tend to keep to themselves, with a sort of rust belt surrounding this space where ideas have either risen in the Thalassan ranks or been abandoned out of imperfections.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

Thalassans tend to maintain at least a working relationship with other species, as the resources and ideas that they can provide can prove quite useful in the advancement of perfection on Pelagia. However, this connection tends to be at the uppermost level in both societies, and Thalassans tend to focus primarily on their own success ahead of that of others. Some particular relations of note are listed below.

===Abyssal===
The Abyssal were once one of the many subspecies populating Pelagia's waters, though in the times before Thalassan unification they were already somewhat distant from the others by nature. Following the unification of the Thalassans and their growing focus on perfection, the Abyssal separated even more, withdrawing largely to the Noct Stratum where few Thalassans tended to go to avoid early Thalassan efforts to include them in their plans for unification. As such, the Abyssal tend to be viewed simply as notable outsiders among Thalassan society, though some have been acknowledged for tremendous potential in their fields (such as thermodynamic research or record-keeping). Despite this, they tend to be viewed with somewhat more trepidation than non-Pelagian outsiders, owing to the Noct Stratum's reputation for chaotic behavior and stories of lurking dangers.

===Aurelians===
A fellow society proud to maintain an orderly understanding of the universe and innovation, Thalassan attitudes tend to be quite favorable towards Aurelians, especially among those in higher positions on Pelagia. The flow of ideas and tehcnologies between Pelagia and the Eden Construct is quite common, and collaboration between the two is relatively common. Thalassans, however, are quite fond of the ability to control and harness magic, and thus the Aurelian aversion to magic proves somewhat troublesome in collaborative endeavors, leaving Thalassans with a burning feeling that they could be achieving more.

===Ferrans===
Thalassans look kindly upon Ferrans and their fellow dedication to the advancement of scientific research, and quite frequently engage in trade with them for the many resources they have access to. Some Frame designs have even been used to inspire independent Thalassan technologies in the past.

===Lagorans and Cervari===
Despite the technological prowess of the Lagorans, relations with the Thalassans have been mixed throughout history. The discovery of warpgate technology on Velora left a sour taste in the minds of many older Thalassans, who felt that it tarnished the reputation of Pelagia as the home of the most idealized technological development. However, following its initial introduction, those who were less inclined to hold a grudge became notable contributors to the more flowlike elements of warpgates (including optimized cooling systems and the use of waterproofing technology to shield the gates from the interstellar void), collaborating with individuals across many species and gaining major social capital for their success back on Pelagia. As a result, relations are now largely positive among younger Thalassans, though far more so with the Lagorans than the Cervari due to their technical expertise.

== Inspiration Images ==

<gallery>
File:Thalassan_landscape1.png|
File:Thalassan_landscape2.png|
File:Thalassan_landscape3.png|
File:Lightscale_arch.png|
File:Zora_arch.png|
File:Thalassan_industry1.png|
File:Thalassan_industry2.png|
File:Thalassan_space1.jpeg|
File:Thalassan_space2.jpeg|
File:Novacorps_ranks.jpg|Link fix coming soon.
</gallery>

== Concept Art ==

<gallery>
File:Sonya_conceptref.png|Sonya Steele.
File:Maria_conceptref.png|Maria Steele, a Thalassan player character.
File:Arden_conceptref.jpg|Arden Steele, a rather physiologically abnormal Thalassan.
</gallery>

[[Category:Species]]

File:Maria conceptref.png

2026-06-06T19:04:36Z

MathNerd314: Maria reference for use on Thalassan wiki page.

== Summary ==
Maria reference for use on Thalassan wiki page.

File:Arden conceptref.jpg

2026-06-06T19:04:18Z

MathNerd314: Arden reference for use on Thalassan wiki page.

== Summary ==
Arden reference for use on Thalassan wiki page.

File:Novacorps ranks.webp

2026-06-06T19:03:36Z

MathNerd314: Reference image for a concept similar to Thalassan upper-class ranking badges.

== Summary ==
Reference image for a concept similar to Thalassan upper-class ranking badges.

File:Thalassan space2.jpeg

2026-06-06T19:02:00Z

MathNerd314: Reference image of what some Thalassan spacecraft might look like.

== Summary ==
Reference image of what some Thalassan spacecraft might look like.

File:Thalassan space1.jpeg

2026-06-06T19:01:42Z

MathNerd314: Reference image of what some Thalassan spacecraft may look like.

== Summary ==
Reference image of what some Thalassan spacecraft may look like.

File:Thalassan landscape3.png

2026-06-06T19:01:19Z

MathNerd314: Reference image of what some Thalassan landscapes might look like.

== Summary ==
Reference image of what some Thalassan landscapes might look like.

File:Thalassan landscape2.png

2026-06-06T19:01:00Z

MathNerd314: Reference image of what some Thalassan landscapes might look like.

== Summary ==
Reference image of what some Thalassan landscapes might look like.

File:Thalassan landscape1.png

2026-06-06T19:00:37Z

MathNerd314: Reference image of what some Thalassan landscapes might look like.

== Summary ==
Reference image of what some Thalassan landscapes might look like.

File:Thalassan industry2.png

2026-06-06T18:59:24Z

MathNerd314: Reference image of what some Thalassan industrial areas might look like.

== Summary ==
Reference image of what some Thalassan industrial areas might look like.

File:Thalassan industry1.png

2026-06-06T18:58:58Z

MathNerd314: Reference image of what some Thalassan industrial areas might look like.

== Summary ==
Reference image of what some Thalassan industrial areas might look like.

File:Zora arch.png

2026-06-06T18:58:26Z

MathNerd314: Reference image for what some Thalassan architecture might look like.

== Summary ==
Reference image for what some Thalassan architecture might look like.

File:Lightscale arch.png

2026-06-06T18:57:59Z

MathNerd314: Reference image for what the Lightscale Islands may look like on Pelagia.

== Summary ==
Reference image for what the Lightscale Islands may look like on Pelagia.

Thalassans

2026-06-06T03:18:40Z

MathNerd314: Final text content dump should be DONE!! Formatting and images still need work

{{Species
| name = Species Name
| image = Placeholder.png

| homeworld = Pelagia
| habitats = Various stratified levels of the ocean
| traits = Extremely varied, but localized to fish and marine animal traits such as fins and gills
| writers = Nikki, Arc, Kay^2
}}

<blockquote>
''"Just as every molecule of water has its place in the machinery of the oceans around us, so too is each and every one of us instrumental to the world around us. Study your path well, and let us all do our part to maintain this beautiful operation." — speaker at a Thalassan graduation ceremony''
</blockquote>

Thalassans are an aquatic, humanoid species that varies widely from individual to individual, due to the explosive genetic diversity of marine life. Many have gills, fins, tails, scales, webbing, and other aquatic adaptations. They are a caste-stratified species denoted by the various depths at which individuals live on their homeworld, '''[[Pelagia]]'''. They are extremely technologically advanced and have been at the forefront of scientific advancement in known space. Their culture combines an almost oppressive work ethic with a deep thirst for knowledge. As a primarily aquatic species, one would imagine that their advancements would be limited, but instead, the opposite is true. Deeply passionate about their life pursuits, Thalassans are appreciated throughout known space as ambitious and competent in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn.

== Core Worldview ==

Thalassan society centers around the idea of perfection, and striving to attain it in every aspect of their lives. While there can be many differing ideas of what perfection can look like, resulting from the many different Thalassan subspecies and their priorities, the ultimate goal is to achieve harmony among these goals.

Such perfectionism is quite noticeable in the intense, almost oppressive work ethic of many Thalassans, regardless of their chosen field. Tasks are treated with great dedication, and timeliness is of great value, both inside and outside the workplace.

This passion for each individual's field also places a great emphasis on ambition and progress in one's achievements. Thalassans strive to be the leaders in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn. On a societal level, this has led to many advancements over time, cementing Pelagia as a hub of technology and research.

Lastly, this perfection finds itself reflected in the overall structure of Thalassan society, where order and stability are established as incredibly important concepts. This reverberates across many spaces, making changes to existing systems often slow to implement in order to preserve existing efforts to optimize them.

== Physiology and Design ==

Common traits found across many Thalassans include:

* Gills in some form
* Specialized sensory organs to allow for detection of electrical fields
* Fins
* Tails
* Scales
* Sharp teeth
* Fish eyes Webbing
* Tentacles and other species-specific features
Diet:

Thalassans are omnivorous, carnivorous, or herbivorous. Each variation has differing diets and nutrition requirements, leading to each city and region having 2-3 different cuisines naturally residing and originating in them based on the dominant Thalassan subspecies/variety.

Size and Age:

Size can vary drastically from 2ft tall (i.e. shrimp-based thalassans) all the way to 8ft tall (i.e. whale-based thalassans). Thalassans have some of the longest lifespans out of the other species universe, but their lifespans mainly are connected to what species variation they are. The average Thalassan lives anywhere from 200 - 500 years old, however some variations of Thalassan genetics are able to live anywhere into the 1000’s, with medical advancements being partially responsible for this extension of their lives.

Common Intraspecific Variation

Thalassans of many kinds can be found on Pelagia and her sister planets, even if there are drastic differences between some members within the same variation category based on what region or culture they originate from. Thalassans can be broadly classified into a number of sub-variations underneath the overarching umbrella of "Thalassan".

* The Tiburan
** This variation dominated in the early warring period of Pelagia. Now they find themselves dominating many fields, being known for their ambition and drive to constantly be moving forward-- whatever 'forward' means to them. This variation is characterized through their sharp rows of teeth, their sandpaper-like skin(dermal denticles), and sharp vision.
* The Neptan
** This variation is the most common, being able to be found in every environment on Pelagia. Being the most common, they are also the most diverse, with extreme differences being found in each region they reside in. This group made up most of the smaller sects of Thalassan in the warring period. This variation is characterized through their scales, lateral line system, swim bladder, and unique abilities per Neptan variation. For example, a Neptan whose lineage traces back to clownfish is able to change their biological sex through natural processes, and a Neptan found in the deeper water would commonly have bioluminescence. Connie Vixen - Lionfish Neptan and famous Pelagia talk show host
* The Crustan
** This variation can be found on Pelagia and every sister planet. They're known as the most adaptable Thalassan variation, being incredibly durable and strong. Crustan are able to live some of the longest lives of any Thalassan due to their adaptability and constitution, but the upkeep required to maintain themselves is extremely expensive. This variation is characterized by their chitinous exoskeleton, segmented bodies, larval stages, and many have only legs and no fins.
* The Koppo
** This variation is not the most common, but it is found in many academic fields, being known culturally for their values on academia. This variation is characterized by their many tentacles, ability to camouflage, their ink sac, and their beak.
* The Valis
** This variation is known for their larger than average sizes and for being especially sociable creatures. Valis tend to form close family bonds and deeper friendships, and thrive in fields that encourage communication and teamwork. This variation is characterized by their blowholes, size, lack of gills, smooth skin, and their many unique sensory organs.
* The Mylio
** This variation is most commonly known for their dances; they can be found in many entertainment fields, using their unique wing-like fins to entrance and entertain. This variation is characterized by their unique wing-like fins, horn-like projections, and a whip-like tail that can be either razored or venomous.
* The Usa
** This variation is known for their many colors and being the most similar to water itself. This variation is characterized by their bioluminescence, stinging cells, and extremely long natural lifespans.
* The Echino
** This variation is known for slow, methodical movements and decisions. This variation is characterized by their spiny skin, regenerative abilities, and water vascular system.
* The Saporans
** This variation is known for living on the few pieces of land that are above water. However, this is not their only habitat, as they are able to live in most cities that lie in the shallower areas of the oceans and lakes. This variation is characterized by their permeable skin, unique hearing, biphasic lifestyle, and their ability to undergo drastic metamorphosis. This variation has many differences, but they are able to live both with other Thalassans and well among themselves. Many Saporans do tend to live further away from standard Thalassan society, leading to complications in social and cultural exchanges.

== Social Structures and Community ==

Early Thalassan History: Early in Pelagia the oceans were separated by fear and differences. The many variations of Thalassan led to such separation that the word Thalassan did not exist for much of Pelagia's history, they used different words to classify each other. This is where the existence of names like: Tiburan, Neptan, Koppo, and all the other names for intraspecific variation came to be as they were used for these separate tribes. Those words are not used often anymore as the more united Thalassan is much more popular, but older Thalassans still tend to prefer the distinction. These early tribes in Pelagia are long sense disbanded, but the ripple of the early waring periods of the tribes still affects modern Thalassan society. Groups like the Tiburon, the Valis, and the Koppo still benefit from their early dominance on Pelagia. The wealth they accumulated in those times still benefits their children and much of society is still dominated by these groups. Even though the world is not swayed by war and conflict anymore, those that are the strongest, fastest, and deadly still have more opportunities. Beauty standards, popular culture, fashion, and jobs still tend to be swayed by those ideas.

Pelagia holds many cities, all at varying depth and location to accommodate the many different variations. Variations that prefer depth and cold live in cities closer to the poles in the many trenches that carve Pelagia's surface, variations that prefer warmth live closer to he equator at floating surface cities. The variations that prefer to live in wetlands tend to live in the more rural patches of land that speckle the planet. However, the capital city of Pelagia named Coralia houses the widest variations of Thalassan and even many Abyssals.

Thalassan government operates as a partial representative democracy. Each member representing their own field, from engineering to arts. The members of this large council of leaders is decided by a series of tests according to their own fields and public voting, the combination is used to decide who would be the perfect pick. Issues and decisions are tackled by this group of leaders, each providing their perspective and view of how to make the perfect decision, this leads to many decisions taking a very long time. Each term of ruling lasts a short 42 years.

Families in the past were communally raised, and given independance as soon as a child was mature enough to make their own decision to leave or stay. Some Thalassans still do this, but a rising trend due to the individualistic nature of capitalism is a more closed off family structure. With two parents raising their children and once mature that child is forced out to begin their own path but still tied to their family.

== Religion and Spirituality ==
Thalassan's desire for perfectionism has left their previous spiritualist beliefs behind, belief in invisible forces like in religion or spiritualism is not popular, but it still does exist. Few Thalassans still truly believe but the most popular form of spiritualism is a form of Animism that revolves around the currents, waves, maelstroms, the sun, and their three moons. They believe each of these things along with other natural phenomena have their own will, that their is intention behind the chaos. That entropy itself is achieved through will. There is no singular name for it but many refer the idea as being one of a "blue mind".

Currents are viewed as the push and pull of energy, a invisible force that will guide you to where you need to go but over reliance on it will leave you lost or crushed. The instinctual push and pull of life guides all, and you must move through those currents of life with intention or else the oceans intentions will overtake you. Travelers that get caught in currents may view it as the ocean telling them where they must go, and so they listen while they are within it.

Waves represent the ebb and flow of life, that no matter how large you scale you will crash back down eventually only to be built back up into the next wave. You are not the individual wave, but the whole ocean. You will rise high and crash down, but there is more rising and crashing to follow. This is a very important piece of Thalassan philosophy as with their long lifespans there is a lot of time to fail, and having the reminder that you will exist beyond those is important.

Maelstroms are violent whirlpools, they represent turbulent intersections of energies. Different wills battling against one another, and while destructive in their wake they cleanse the energies of that region of ocean. The churning of the water revitalizes the area and uplifts hidden things. If you come across one it is advised that you avoid and go around, but provide an offering to ensure safe passage. The contribution will assist in the revitalization of the water after it has cleared.

The sun's heating and evaporation is a large cause of many ocean currents, as well as generating winds, and evaporation driving storms. The sun is a vital part of what causes the ocean to not only move, but live. Solar bodies represent entropy with intent, the intent of these solar bodies generates entropy and chaos in all that it touches, uneven heating generates winds, winds generate random currents, those energies push, pull and react to each till they dissipate. Great movers and shakers that despite their almost divine form, each action they take eventually breaks down. Chaos consumes, but in that chaos there is beauty. A reminder that no matter how large or powerful you are, or how small and weak all actions lead to the same result, ever echoing chaos and entropy. Each individual themselves is nothing more than the energy that came before, every action is outputting that energy that they are, and even long after they are gone the energy they put out will still be moving and transferring somewhere. No matter what even if you die, you actions will not, their impact will ripple through the universe forever. As energy can never be destroyed.

The three moons on Pelagia have immense spiritualistic meaning. The moons themselves create the chaotic and turbulent ocean that Pelagia holds, the push and pull against each other to create unique tides and waves every day. The three moons are sisters, their names are Tirina, Shura, and Mira. Mira represents the reflection of the Thalassan people, a reflection of their intent and will. Shura represents logic and stability, she is known to have the most stable orbit with it barely moving even a degree off the equator for as long as its been recorded. Tirina represents destruction, she is blackened by the ash of many asteroids and she is believed to be the cause of many tsunamis destructive currents and maelstroms. She is viewed to be Pelagia's anger. Each moon has different meanings at each phase with their new and full variations. During a full moon Mira is said to be reflecting the joy of the Pelagian people, and that she is providing them a feast, as hunting is most efficient in the bright light of the full moon. A full moon for Shura means that the oceans will be calm, and that tranquility is approaching. Tirina at a full moon represents a dangerous ocean, and that she wishes to watch as beings are crushed beneath her waves. New moons always have an ominous meaning behind them but are inverses of their full phase version.

== Technology and Science ==

Thalassan technology, naturally, integrates water into many of its components. From thermal regulation systems to immensely powerful hydraulics to jet propulsion, Thalassans have figured out how to use water to solve almost any engineering problem, creating an incredibly diverse set of devices and machinery based in the principles of the ocean surrounding them.

A notable problem Thalassans have to work around is waterproofing, as seawater can mercilessly erode anything given enough time. Two competing schools of thought exist with regard to solving this issue, with commercial products insisting the superiority of both: making vulnerable systems watertight or making all components compatible with the water around them.

Modern Thalassan magic tends to be harnessed through very specialized pieces of technology, allowing for control and adjustment to protect the user and allow for optimization. These devices tend to be tailored to the individual using them, with designs ranging from glove-like arm covers to remote mechs (all with a focus on allowing free flow around the user).

Major Thalassan cities and universities host frequent inventing, engineering, and robotics competitions. Those who win these competitions are awarded with massive status and opportunity, though perceived failures are punished with equal intensity.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Thalassans have a rather simple sense of fashion. Most civilians prefer lighter clothing of thinner, flowy fabric, a specific type of material that will not hinder their movement but instead grant them ease when swimming while still being considerably fashionable and expressive, even with rich, fancier appearances. Those of higher ranking enforce a more strict form of attire to uphold proper projection and ensure member safety with hydrodynamic gear/outfits (lightweight). These individuals also carry badges on their person, establishing a ranking of position in said company/division. Overall, this leads their attire to be less expressive in comparison to others but still maintains function— if not better. Occasionally, Thalassans hold scheduled seasonal fashion cycles to determine appropriate wear. They create their clothing with what their own world of water offers them. Marine biomass, extracting biopolymers from kelp and seaweed, using silky byssus threads to make sea silk— they use anything at their disposal, often including trade from offworld collaborators.

== Occupations ==

Thalassans find work in an incredibly wide variety of fields, embracing their goal of perfection in just about any occupation they have access to. Those in lower social positions often are restricted to more menial (yet still essential) tasks, where training can often run within families due to the costs associated with professional schooling. Those in higher social positions find themselves at the forefront of their chosen fields, with common aspirations including technological research, engineering design, and academia at large.

Many Thalassan jobs are confined to Pelagia, owing to the uniquely aquatic environment that many individuals find themselves performing best in. Those who do choose to work off-planet are usually at the top of their social spheres, and strive to be seen as leaders in their positions.

An incredibly common feature of most Thalassan workplaces is the implementation of a ranking system among each occupation. Each individual is ranked according to factors like overall performance, efficiency, and reliability, with constant updates as the day progresses. An individual's ranking determines many things about their life, influencing their social standing, pay levels, and ability to participate in the government, with occupational ranking being a major factor in deciding members of the governing council.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

Thalassan space travel is a highly regulated matter in order to uphold the carefully-curated image of Pelagian society with for rest of the known worlds. Most planetary access is through spaceports on the Lightscale Islands, which also tend to act as visitor and business hubs for this reason, though some specialized ports can be found deeper in the cities (such as the Council's Port in Coralia). Tourism tends to be restricted to spaces near the surface of the Lucent Stratum, where breathing infrastructure is most prevalent; however, visitors may gain additional access through a combination of competency examinations and research relevance.

Thalassan spacecraft tend to be very nautical in nature, taking their inspirations from a combination of seafaring vessels and marine life. In addition to space travel, most native Thalassan vessels are also equipped for aquatic travel, allowing unique access to the smaller underwater ports which are also used for domestic travel around Pelagia. Transportation is largely privately-owned, whether by individuals or corporations, but those vessels which are owned by the Thalassan government are grand and pristine, offering immense travel capabilities (though often used for little more than ceremony).

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

The word Thalassan is relatively new—for much of their history, divisions into each of the Thalassan subspecies were far more common, and some of the oldest Thalassans still tend to use these to describe the world around them.

Old money in the Thalassan social stratification is largely based on evolutionary measures/success (i.e., killer whales, large octopi), while new money tends to have come from unique innovation and technological usefulness (i.e., krill being good with smaller electronics).

The obsession with ranking begins incredibly young, with school ranking being an incredibly competitive pursuit as early as primary school. Senior class rankings are even used to award an honorary position among the council to prepare these students for their future pursuits.

Each group's ranking system has an intricate and unique algorithm to determine where individuals will be placed, with factors ranging from concrete research contributions to peer review statistics.

Rankings are updated in real time as events carry on, and are largely accessed online. Specialized physical leaderboards exist around Coralia, with professional centers displaying their own top 1% and a grand leaderboard displaying the top 5 members of each profession outside the Hall of Perfection.

Thalassan life is incredibly regular, with many individuals carrying out an optimized schedule that they have crafted over many years. To disrupt this schedule is a major faux pas in the upper echelons of society.

Each year, Coralia hosts a festival known as The Day of Advancement, celebrating the progress and achievements made that year in Thalassan society and highlighting the most prolific contributors to that success.

The badges worn by those in Thalassan upper society denote their positioning within society and how close to perfection they have achieved. Each additional line added to the fractal-like patterning on them demonstrates even greater lifetime achievement.

== Notable Locations ==

===The Lightscale Islands===
The Lightscale Islands are the artificial island-like structures scattered around Pelagia's otherwise mostly oceanic surface which mark the uppermost access points to most major cities. Due to their nature as rare patches of dry land, they serve as the planet's major travel hubs, and the most common routes in and out of Thalassan society. Though the land itself is limited, there are major communities between the islands and the cities proper with significant air infrastructure to allow for collaborative work to be done between Thalassans and visitors. These areas see some of the highest performances of Thalassan perfection culture (second only to the capital, Coralia), with constant cleaning and upkeep involved in ensuring an outward image of perfection.

===Coralia===
Coralia is the capital city of Pelagia, and the largest city in the Lucent Stratum. Its Lightscale Island is the most significant planetary hub on Pelagia, with many businesses having operating centers there, though access further into the city is heavily restricted to only the finest, most competent individuals. At the city's center is the Hall of Perfection, which acts as the seat of the Thalassan government and is where the ruling council meets. Surrounding the central chambers is a sprawling administrative complex, where many of the minutiae of Thalassan existence are dictated. Much of the rest of the city serves as a research hub, allowing the members of the council to spend their non-governing time contributing to the growth of their individual fields. The city is by far the most orderly space on Pelagia on every level, from the intense cleanliness measures to its overall hub-and-spokes design dividing the space into clear regions based on occupation.

===Saltspray Plateau===
The Saltspray Plateau is a major hub of Thalassan industry, and the largest city of the Twilight Stratum. This space receives comparatively few outside visitors, with the majority of infrastructure designed for Thalassan locals to navigate most easily. The city has a constant hustle and bustle, leaving few quiet moments for residents. The more industrial sectors tend to focus predominantly on supporting on-world resources, including manufacturing facilities for designs produced in upper layers and maintenance support centers for the rest of the planet. The leisure sectors, on the other hand, are well-known for their neverending nightlife (in part sustained due to the lower light levels at these depths), drawing attention from across Thalassan society to give a break from the stress that expectations of perfection can bring.

===The Great Barriers===
The divisions of the planet, the Strata separate Pelagia into almost different worlds despite being immediately adjacent to one another. The Great Barriers themselves exist to demarcate these divisions—though they do not actually block access from one side to another, they make clear the distinctions in expectations between the spaces. The Lucent-Twilight Barrier is quite active, and often exists largely for ceremonial and regulatory purposes than anything else. The Twilight-Noct Barrier, on the other hand, sits mostly abandoned on the edge of the Noct Stratum, as residents on either side tend to keep to themselves, with a sort of rust belt surrounding this space where ideas have either risen in the Thalassan ranks or been abandoned out of imperfections.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

Thalassans tend to maintain at least a working relationship with other species, as the resources and ideas that they can provide can prove quite useful in the advancement of perfection on Pelagia. However, this connection tends to be at the uppermost level in both societies, and Thalassans tend to focus primarily on their own success ahead of that of others. Some particular relations of note are listed below.

===Abyssal===
The Abyssal were once one of the many subspecies populating Pelagia's waters, though in the times before Thalassan unification they were already somewhat distant from the others by nature. Following the unification of the Thalassans and their growing focus on perfection, the Abyssal separated even more, withdrawing largely to the Noct Stratum where few Thalassans tended to go to avoid early Thalassan efforts to include them in their plans for unification. As such, the Abyssal tend to be viewed simply as notable outsiders among Thalassan society, though some have been acknowledged for tremendous potential in their fields (such as thermodynamic research or record-keeping). Despite this, they tend to be viewed with somewhat more trepidation than non-Pelagian outsiders, owing to the Noct Stratum's reputation for chaotic behavior and stories of lurking dangers.

===Aurelians===
A fellow society proud to maintain an orderly understanding of the universe and innovation, Thalassan attitudes tend to be quite favorable towards Aurelians, especially among those in higher positions on Pelagia. The flow of ideas and tehcnologies between Pelagia and the Eden Construct is quite common, and collaboration between the two is relatively common. Thalassans, however, are quite fond of the ability to control and harness magic, and thus the Aurelian aversion to magic proves somewhat troublesome in collaborative endeavors, leaving Thalassans with a burning feeling that they could be achieving more.

===Ferrans===
Thalassans look kindly upon Ferrans and their fellow dedication to the advancement of scientific research, and quite frequently engage in trade with them for the many resources they have access to. Some Frame designs have even been used to inspire independent Thalassan technologies in the past.

===Lagorans and Cervari===
Despite the technological prowess of the Lagorans, relations with the Thalassans have been mixed throughout history. The discovery of warpgate technology on Velora left a sour taste in the minds of many older Thalassans, who felt that it tarnished the reputation of Pelagia as the home of the most idealized technological development. However, following its initial introduction, those who were less inclined to hold a grudge became notable contributors to the more flowlike elements of warpgates (including optimized cooling systems and the use of waterproofing technology to shield the gates from the interstellar void), collaborating with individuals across many species and gaining major social capital for their success back on Pelagia. As a result, relations are now largely positive among younger Thalassans, though far more so with the Lagorans than the Cervari due to their technical expertise.

== Inspiration Images ==

Add visual references here!

== Concept Art ==

Add actual concept art here, stuff we made!

[[Category:Species]]

Thalassans

2026-06-03T01:53:44Z

MathNerd314: Formatting edits! Links still need to be added to species relations

{{Species
| name = Species Name
| image = Placeholder.png

| homeworld = Pelagia
| habitats = Various stratified levels of the ocean
| traits = Extremely varied, but localized to fish and marine animal traits such as fins and gills
| writers = Nikki, Arc, Kay^2
}}

<blockquote>
''"Just as every molecule of water has its place in the machinery of the oceans around us, so too is each and every one of us instrumental to the world around us. Study your path well, and let us all do our part to maintain this beautiful operation." — speaker at a Thalassan graduation ceremony''
</blockquote>

Thalassans are an aquatic, humanoid species that varies widely from individual to individual, due to the explosive genetic diversity of marine life. Many have gills, fins, tails, scales, webbing, and other aquatic adaptations. They are a caste-stratified species denoted by the various depths at which individuals live on their homeworld, '''[[Pelagia]]'''. They are extremely technologically advanced and have been at the forefront of scientific advancement in known space. Their culture combines an almost oppressive work ethic with a deep thirst for knowledge. As a primarily aquatic species, one would imagine that their advancements would be limited, but instead, the opposite is true. Deeply passionate about their life pursuits, Thalassans are appreciated throughout known space as ambitious and competent in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn.

== Core Worldview ==

Thalassan society centers around the idea of perfection, and striving to attain it in every aspect of their lives. While there can be many differing ideas of what perfection can look like, resulting from the many different Thalassan subspecies and their priorities, the ultimate goal is to achieve harmony among these goals.

Such perfectionism is quite noticeable in the intense, almost oppressive work ethic of many Thalassans, regardless of their chosen field. Tasks are treated with great dedication, and timeliness is of great value, both inside and outside the workplace.

This passion for each individual's field also places a great emphasis on ambition and progress in one's achievements. Thalassans strive to be the leaders in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn. On a societal level, this has led to many advancements over time, cementing Pelagia as a hub of technology and research.

Lastly, this perfection finds itself reflected in the overall structure of Thalassan society, where order and stability are established as incredibly important concepts. This reverberates across many spaces, making changes to existing systems often slow to implement in order to preserve existing efforts to optimize them.

== Physiology and Design ==

Common traits found across many Thalassans include:

* Gills in some form
* Specialized sensory organs to allow for detection of electrical fields
* Fins
* Tails
* Scales
* Sharp teeth
* Fish eyes Webbing
* Tentacles and other species-specific features
Diet:

Thalassans are omnivorous, carnivorous, or herbivorous. Each variation has differing diets and nutrition requirements, leading to each city and region having 2-3 different cuisines naturally residing and originating in them based on the dominant Thalassan subspecies/variety.

Size and Age:

Size can vary drastically from 2ft tall (i.e. shrimp-based thalassans) all the way to 8ft tall (i.e. whale-based thalassans). Thalassans have some of the longest lifespans out of the other species universe, but their lifespans mainly are connected to what species variation they are. The average Thalassan lives anywhere from 200 - 500 years old, however some variations of Thalassan genetics are able to live anywhere into the 1000’s, with medical advancements being partially responsible for this extension of their lives.

Common Intraspecific Variation

Thalassans of many kinds can be found on Pelagia and her sister planets, even if there are drastic differences between some members within the same variation category based on what region or culture they originate from. Thalassans can be broadly classified into a number of sub-variations underneath the overarching umbrella of "Thalassan".

* The Tiburan
** This variation dominated in the early warring period of Pelagia. Now they find themselves dominating many fields, being known for their ambition and drive to constantly be moving forward-- whatever 'forward' means to them. This variation is characterized through their sharp rows of teeth, their sandpaper-like skin(dermal denticles), and sharp vision.
* The Neptan
** This variation is the most common, being able to be found in every environment on Pelagia. Being the most common, they are also the most diverse, with extreme differences being found in each region they reside in. This group made up most of the smaller sects of Thalassan in the warring period. This variation is characterized through their scales, lateral line system, swim bladder, and unique abilities per Neptan variation. For example, a Neptan whose lineage traces back to clownfish is able to change their biological sex through natural processes, and a Neptan found in the deeper water would commonly have bioluminescence. Connie Vixen - Lionfish Neptan and famous Pelagia talk show host
* The Crustan
** This variation can be found on Pelagia and every sister planet. They're known as the most adaptable Thalassan variation, being incredibly durable and strong. Crustan are able to live some of the longest lives of any Thalassan due to their adaptability and constitution, but the upkeep required to maintain themselves is extremely expensive. This variation is characterized by their chitinous exoskeleton, segmented bodies, larval stages, and many have only legs and no fins.
* The Koppo
** This variation is not the most common, but it is found in many academic fields, being known culturally for their values on academia. This variation is characterized by their many tentacles, ability to camouflage, their ink sac, and their beak.
* The Valis
** This variation is known for their larger than average sizes and for being especially sociable creatures. Valis tend to form close family bonds and deeper friendships, and thrive in fields that encourage communication and teamwork. This variation is characterized by their blowholes, size, lack of gills, smooth skin, and their many unique sensory organs.
* The Mylio
** This variation is most commonly known for their dances; they can be found in many entertainment fields, using their unique wing-like fins to entrance and entertain. This variation is characterized by their unique wing-like fins, horn-like projections, and a whip-like tail that can be either razored or venomous.
* The Usa
** This variation is known for their many colors and being the most similar to water itself. This variation is characterized by their bioluminescence, stinging cells, and extremely long natural lifespans.
* The Echino
** This variation is known for slow, methodical movements and decisions. This variation is characterized by their spiny skin, regenerative abilities, and water vascular system.
* The Saporans
** This variation is known for living on the few pieces of land that are above water. However, this is not their only habitat, as they are able to live in most cities that lie in the shallower areas of the oceans and lakes. This variation is characterized by their permeable skin, unique hearing, biphasic lifestyle, and their ability to undergo drastic metamorphosis. This variation has many differences, but they are able to live both with other Thalassans and well among themselves. Many Saporans do tend to live further away from standard Thalassan society, leading to complications in social and cultural exchanges.

== Social Structures and Community ==

Early Thalassan History: Early in Pelagia the oceans were separated by fear and differences. The many variations of Thalassan led to such separation that the word Thalassan did not exist for much of Pelagia's history, they used different words to classify each other. This is where the existence of names like: Tiburan, Neptan, Koppo, and all the other names for intraspecific variation came to be as they were used for these separate tribes. Those words are not used often anymore as the more united Thalassan is much more popular, but older Thalassans still tend to prefer the distinction. These early tribes in Pelagia are long sense disbanded, but the ripple of the early waring periods of the tribes still affects modern Thalassan society. Groups like the Tiburon, the Valis, and the Koppo still benefit from their early dominance on Pelagia. The wealth they accumulated in those times still benefits their children and much of society is still dominated by these groups. Even though the world is not swayed by war and conflict anymore, those that are the strongest, fastest, and deadly still have more opportunities. Beauty standards, popular culture, fashion, and jobs still tend to be swayed by those ideas.

Pelagia holds many cities, all at varying depth and location to accommodate the many different variations. Variations that prefer depth and cold live in cities closer to the poles in the many trenches that carve Pelagia's surface, variations that prefer warmth live closer to he equator at floating surface cities. The variations that prefer to live in wetlands tend to live in the more rural patches of land that speckle the planet. However, the capital city of Pelagia named Coralia houses the widest variations of Thalassan and even many Abyssals.

Thalassan government operates as a partial representative democracy. Each member representing their own field, from engineering to arts. The members of this large council of leaders is decided by a series of tests according to their own fields and public voting, the combination is used to decide who would be the perfect pick. Issues and decisions are tackled by this group of leaders, each providing their perspective and view of how to make the perfect decision, this leads to many decisions taking a very long time. Each term of ruling lasts a short 42 years.

Families in the past were communally raised, and given independance as soon as a child was mature enough to make their own decision to leave or stay. Some Thalassans still do this, but a rising trend due to the individualistic nature of capitalism is a more closed off family structure. With two parents raising their children and once mature that child is forced out to begin their own path but still tied to their family.

== Religion and Spirituality ==
Thalassan's desire for perfectionism has left their previous spiritualist beliefs behind, belief in invisible forces like in religion or spiritualism is not popular, but it still does exist. Few Thalassans still truly believe but the most popular form of spiritualism is a form of Animism that revolves around the currents, waves, maelstroms, the sun, and their three moons. They believe each of these things along with other natural phenomena have their own will, that their is intention behind the chaos. That entropy itself is achieved through will. There is no singular name for it but many refer the idea as being one of a "blue mind".

Currents are viewed as the push and pull of energy, a invisible force that will guide you to where you need to go but over reliance on it will leave you lost or crushed. The instinctual push and pull of life guides all, and you must move through those currents of life with intention or else the oceans intentions will overtake you. Travelers that get caught in currents may view it as the ocean telling them where they must go, and so they listen while they are within it.

Waves represent the ebb and flow of life, that no matter how large you scale you will crash back down eventually only to be built back up into the next wave. You are not the individual wave, but the whole ocean. You will rise high and crash down, but there is more rising and crashing to follow. This is a very important piece of Thalassan philosophy as with their long lifespans there is a lot of time to fail, and having the reminder that you will exist beyond those is important.

Maelstroms are violent whirlpools, they represent turbulent intersections of energies. Different wills battling against one another, and while destructive in their wake they cleanse the energies of that region of ocean. The churning of the water revitalizes the area and uplifts hidden things. If you come across one it is advised that you avoid and go around, but provide an offering to ensure safe passage. The contribution will assist in the revitalization of the water after it has cleared.

The sun's heating and evaporation is a large cause of many ocean currents, as well as generating winds, and evaporation driving storms. The sun is a vital part of what causes the ocean to not only move, but live. Solar bodies represent entropy with intent, the intent of these solar bodies generates entropy and chaos in all that it touches, uneven heating generates winds, winds generate random currents, those energies push, pull and react to each till they dissipate. Great movers and shakers that despite their almost divine form, each action they take eventually breaks down. Chaos consumes, but in that chaos there is beauty. A reminder that no matter how large or powerful you are, or how small and weak all actions lead to the same result, ever echoing chaos and entropy. Each individual themselves is nothing more than the energy that came before, every action is outputting that energy that they are, and even long after they are gone the energy they put out will still be moving and transferring somewhere. No matter what even if you die, you actions will not, their impact will ripple through the universe forever. As energy can never be destroyed.

The three moons on Pelagia have immense spiritualistic meaning. The moons themselves create the chaotic and turbulent ocean that Pelagia holds, the push and pull against each other to create unique tides and waves every day. The three moons are sisters, their names are Tirina, Shura, and Mira. Mira represents the reflection of the Thalassan people, a reflection of their intent and will. Shura represents logic and stability, she is known to have the most stable orbit with it barely moving even a degree off the equator for as long as its been recorded. Tirina represents destruction, she is blackened by the ash of many asteroids and she is believed to be the cause of many tsunamis destructive currents and maelstroms. She is viewed to be Pelagia's anger. Each moon has different meanings at each phase with their new and full variations. During a full moon Mira is said to be reflecting the joy of the Pelagian people, and that she is providing them a feast, as hunting is most efficient in the bright light of the full moon. A full moon for Shura means that the oceans will be calm, and that tranquility is approaching. Tirina at a full moon represents a dangerous ocean, and that she wishes to watch as beings are crushed beneath her waves. New moons always have an ominous meaning behind them but are inverses of their full phase version.

== Technology and Science ==

Thalassan technology, naturally, integrates water into many of its components. From thermal regulation systems to immensely powerful hydraulics to jet propulsion, Thalassans have figured out how to use water to solve almost any engineering problem, creating an incredibly diverse set of devices and machinery based in the principles of the ocean surrounding them.

A notable problem Thalassans have to work around is waterproofing, as seawater can mercilessly erode anything given enough time. Two competing schools of thought exist with regard to solving this issue, with commercial products insisting the superiority of both: making vulnerable systems watertight or making all components compatible with the water around them.

Modern Thalassan magic tends to be harnessed through very specialized pieces of technology, allowing for control and adjustment to protect the user and allow for optimization. These devices tend to be tailored to the individual using them, with designs ranging from glove-like arm covers to remote mechs (all with a focus on allowing free flow around the user).

Major Thalassan cities and universities host frequent inventing, engineering, and robotics competitions. Those who win these competitions are awarded with massive status and opportunity, though perceived failures are punished with equal intensity.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Thalassans have a rather simple sense of fashion. Most civilians prefer lighter clothing of thinner, flowy fabric, a specific type of material that will not hinder their movement but instead grant them ease when swimming while still being considerably fashionable and expressive, even with rich, fancier appearances. Those of higher ranking enforce a more strict form of attire to uphold proper projection and ensure member safety with hydrodynamic gear/outfits (lightweight). These individuals also carry badges on their person, establishing a ranking of position in said company/division. Overall, this leads their attire to be less expressive in comparison to others but still maintains function— if not better. Occasionally, Thalassans hold scheduled seasonal fashion cycles to determine appropriate wear. They create their clothing with what their own world of water offers them. Marine biomass, extracting biopolymers from kelp and seaweed, using silky byssus threads to make sea silk— they use anything at their disposal, often including trade from offworld collaborators.

== Occupations ==

Thalassans find work in an incredibly wide variety of fields, embracing their goal of perfection in just about any occupation they have access to. Those in lower social positions often are restricted to more menial (yet still essential) tasks, where training can often run within families due to the costs associated with professional schooling. Those in higher social positions find themselves at the forefront of their chosen fields, with common aspirations including technological research, engineering design, and academia at large.

Many Thalassan jobs are confined to Pelagia, owing to the uniquely aquatic environment that many individuals find themselves performing best in. Those who do choose to work off-planet are usually at the top of their social spheres, and strive to be seen as leaders in their positions.

An incredibly common feature of most Thalassan workplaces is the implementation of a ranking system among each occupation. Each individual is ranked according to factors like overall performance, efficiency, and reliability, with constant updates as the day progresses. An individual's ranking determines many things about their life, influencing their social standing, pay levels, and ability to participate in the government, with occupational ranking being a major factor in deciding members of the governing council.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

What does travel look like for this species? What do ships native to their planet look like? Do they travel often? Do they have bustling ports or are they more closed off?

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

A big trivia section, basically. I'd encourage incorporating animal mannerisms and fun little traits that don't fit anywhere else.

== Notable Locations ==

===The Lightscale Islands===
The Lightscale Islands are the artificial island-like structures scattered around Pelagia's otherwise mostly oceanic surface which mark the uppermost access points to most major cities. Due to their nature as rare patches of dry land, they serve as the planet's major travel hubs, and the most common routes in and out of Thalassan society. Though the land itself is limited, there are major communities between the islands and the cities proper with significant air infrastructure to allow for collaborative work to be done between Thalassans and visitors. These areas see some of the highest performances of Thalassan perfection culture (second only to the capital, Coralia), with constant cleaning and upkeep involved in ensuring an outward image of perfection.

===Coralia===
Coralia is the capital city of Pelagia, and the largest city in the Lucent Stratum. Its Lightscale Island is the most significant planetary hub on Pelagia, with many businesses having operating centers there, though access further into the city is heavily restricted to only the finest, most competent individuals. At the city's center is the Hall of Perfection, which acts as the seat of the Thalassan government and is where the ruling council meets. Surrounding the central chambers is a sprawling administrative complex, where many of the minutiae of Thalassan existence are dictated. Much of the rest of the city serves as a research hub, allowing the members of the council to spend their non-governing time contributing to the growth of their individual fields. The city is by far the most orderly space on Pelagia on every level, from the intense cleanliness measures to its overall hub-and-spokes design dividing the space into clear regions based on occupation.

===Saltspray Plateau===
The Saltspray Plateau is a major hub of Thalassan industry, and the largest city of the Twilight Stratum. This space receives comparatively few outside visitors, with the majority of infrastructure designed for Thalassan locals to navigate most easily. The city has a constant hustle and bustle, leaving few quiet moments for residents. The more industrial sectors tend to focus predominantly on supporting on-world resources, including manufacturing facilities for designs produced in upper layers and maintenance support centers for the rest of the planet. The leisure sectors, on the other hand, are well-known for their neverending nightlife (in part sustained due to the lower light levels at these depths), drawing attention from across Thalassan society to give a break from the stress that expectations of perfection can bring.

===The Great Barriers===
The divisions of the planet, the Strata separate Pelagia into almost different worlds despite being immediately adjacent to one another. The Great Barriers themselves exist to demarcate these divisions—though they do not actually block access from one side to another, they make clear the distinctions in expectations between the spaces. The Lucent-Twilight Barrier is quite active, and often exists largely for ceremonial and regulatory purposes than anything else. The Twilight-Noct Barrier, on the other hand, sits mostly abandoned on the edge of the Noct Stratum, as residents on either side tend to keep to themselves, with a sort of rust belt surrounding this space where ideas have either risen in the Thalassan ranks or been abandoned out of imperfections.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

Thalassans tend to maintain at least a working relationship with other species, as the resources and ideas that they can provide can prove quite useful in the advancement of perfection on Pelagia. However, this connection tends to be at the uppermost level in both societies, and Thalassans tend to focus primarily on their own success ahead of that of others. Some particular relations of note are listed below.

===Abyssal===
The Abyssal were once one of the many subspecies populating Pelagia's waters, though in the times before Thalassan unification they were already somewhat distant from the others by nature. Following the unification of the Thalassans and their growing focus on perfection, the Abyssal separated even more, withdrawing largely to the Noct Stratum where few Thalassans tended to go to avoid early Thalassan efforts to include them in their plans for unification. As such, the Abyssal tend to be viewed simply as notable outsiders among Thalassan society, though some have been acknowledged for tremendous potential in their fields (such as thermodynamic research or record-keeping). Despite this, they tend to be viewed with somewhat more trepidation than non-Pelagian outsiders, owing to the Noct Stratum's reputation for chaotic behavior and stories of lurking dangers.

===Aurelians===
A fellow society proud to maintain an orderly understanding of the universe and innovation, Thalassan attitudes tend to be quite favorable towards Aurelians, especially among those in higher positions on Pelagia. The flow of ideas and tehcnologies between Pelagia and the Eden Construct is quite common, and collaboration between the two is relatively common. Thalassans, however, are quite fond of the ability to control and harness magic, and thus the Aurelian aversion to magic proves somewhat troublesome in collaborative endeavors, leaving Thalassans with a burning feeling that they could be achieving more.

===Ferrans===
Thalassans look kindly upon Ferrans and their fellow dedication to the advancement of scientific research, and quite frequently engage in trade with them for the many resources they have access to. Some Frame designs have even been used to inspire independent Thalassan technologies in the past.

===Lagorans and Cervari===
Despite the technological prowess of the Lagorans, relations with the Thalassans have been mixed throughout history. The discovery of warpgate technology on Velora left a sour taste in the minds of many older Thalassans, who felt that it tarnished the reputation of Pelagia as the home of the most idealized technological development. However, following its initial introduction, those who were less inclined to hold a grudge became notable contributors to the more flowlike elements of warpgates (including optimized cooling systems and the use of waterproofing technology to shield the gates from the interstellar void), collaborating with individuals across many species and gaining major social capital for their success back on Pelagia. As a result, relations are now largely positive among younger Thalassans, though far more so with the Lagorans than the Cervari due to their technical expertise.

== Inspiration Images ==

Add visual references here!

== Concept Art ==

Add actual concept art here, stuff we made!

[[Category:Species]]

Thalassans

2026-06-03T01:48:41Z

MathNerd314: Super duper progress dump, will fix formatting in next edit

{{Species
| name = Species Name
| image = Placeholder.png

| homeworld = Pelagia
| habitats = Various stratified levels of the ocean
| traits = Extremely varied, but localized to fish and marine animal traits such as fins and gills
| writers = Nikki, Arc, Kay^2
}}

<blockquote>
''"Just as every molecule of water has its place in the machinery of the oceans around us, so too is each and every one of us instrumental to the world around us. Study your path well, and let us all do our part to maintain this beautiful operation." — speaker at a Thalassan graduation ceremony''
</blockquote>

Thalassans are an aquatic, humanoid species that varies widely from individual to individual, due to the explosive genetic diversity of marine life. Many have gills, fins, tails, scales, webbing, and other aquatic adaptations. They are a caste-stratified species denoted by the various depths at which individuals live on their homeworld, '''[[Pelagia]]'''. They are extremely technologically advanced and have been at the forefront of scientific advancement in known space. Their culture combines an almost oppressive work ethic with a deep thirst for knowledge. As a primarily aquatic species, one would imagine that their advancements would be limited, but instead, the opposite is true. Deeply passionate about their life pursuits, Thalassans are appreciated throughout known space as ambitious and competent in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn.

== Core Worldview ==

Thalassan society centers around the idea of perfection, and striving to attain it in every aspect of their lives. While there can be many differing ideas of what perfection can look like, resulting from the many different Thalassan subspecies and their priorities, the ultimate goal is to achieve harmony among these goals.

Such perfectionism is quite noticeable in the intense, almost oppressive work ethic of many Thalassans, regardless of their chosen field. Tasks are treated with great dedication, and timeliness is of great value, both inside and outside the workplace.

This passion for each individual's field also places a great emphasis on ambition and progress in one's achievements. Thalassans strive to be the leaders in many fields, though their ambitions can just as easily take a dark turn. On a societal level, this has led to many advancements over time, cementing Pelagia as a hub of technology and research.

Lastly, this perfection finds itself reflected in the overall structure of Thalassan society, where order and stability are established as incredibly important concepts. This reverberates across many spaces, making changes to existing systems often slow to implement in order to preserve existing efforts to optimize them.

== Physiology and Design ==

Common traits found across many Thalassans include:

* Gills in some form
* Specialized sensory organs to allow for detection of electrical fields
* Fins
* Tails
* Scales
* Sharp teeth
* Fish eyes Webbing
* Tentacles and other species-specific features
Diet:

Thalassans are omnivorous, carnivorous, or herbivorous. Each variation has differing diets and nutrition requirements, leading to each city and region having 2-3 different cuisines naturally residing and originating in them based on the dominant Thalassan subspecies/variety.

Size and Age:

Size can vary drastically from 2ft tall (i.e. shrimp-based thalassans) all the way to 8ft tall (i.e. whale-based thalassans). Thalassans have some of the longest lifespans out of the other species universe, but their lifespans mainly are connected to what species variation they are. The average Thalassan lives anywhere from 200 - 500 years old, however some variations of Thalassan genetics are able to live anywhere into the 1000’s, with medical advancements being partially responsible for this extension of their lives.

Common Intraspecific Variation

Thalassans of many kinds can be found on Pelagia and her sister planets, even if there are drastic differences between some members within the same variation category based on what region or culture they originate from. Thalassans can be broadly classified into a number of sub-variations underneath the overarching umbrella of "Thalassan".

* The Tiburan
** This variation dominated in the early warring period of Pelagia. Now they find themselves dominating many fields, being known for their ambition and drive to constantly be moving forward-- whatever 'forward' means to them. This variation is characterized through their sharp rows of teeth, their sandpaper-like skin(dermal denticles), and sharp vision.
* The Neptan
** This variation is the most common, being able to be found in every environment on Pelagia. Being the most common, they are also the most diverse, with extreme differences being found in each region they reside in. This group made up most of the smaller sects of Thalassan in the warring period. This variation is characterized through their scales, lateral line system, swim bladder, and unique abilities per Neptan variation. For example, a Neptan whose lineage traces back to clownfish is able to change their biological sex through natural processes, and a Neptan found in the deeper water would commonly have bioluminescence. Connie Vixen - Lionfish Neptan and famous Pelagia talk show host
* The Crustan
** This variation can be found on Pelagia and every sister planet. They're known as the most adaptable Thalassan variation, being incredibly durable and strong. Crustan are able to live some of the longest lives of any Thalassan due to their adaptability and constitution, but the upkeep required to maintain themselves is extremely expensive. This variation is characterized by their chitinous exoskeleton, segmented bodies, larval stages, and many have only legs and no fins.
* The Koppo
** This variation is not the most common, but it is found in many academic fields, being known culturally for their values on academia. This variation is characterized by their many tentacles, ability to camouflage, their ink sac, and their beak.
* The Valis
** This variation is known for their larger than average sizes and for being especially sociable creatures. Valis tend to form close family bonds and deeper friendships, and thrive in fields that encourage communication and teamwork. This variation is characterized by their blowholes, size, lack of gills, smooth skin, and their many unique sensory organs.
* The Mylio
** This variation is most commonly known for their dances; they can be found in many entertainment fields, using their unique wing-like fins to entrance and entertain. This variation is characterized by their unique wing-like fins, horn-like projections, and a whip-like tail that can be either razored or venomous.
* The Usa
** This variation is known for their many colors and being the most similar to water itself. This variation is characterized by their bioluminescence, stinging cells, and extremely long natural lifespans.
* The Echino
** This variation is known for slow, methodical movements and decisions. This variation is characterized by their spiny skin, regenerative abilities, and water vascular system.
* The Saporans
** This variation is known for living on the few pieces of land that are above water. However, this is not their only habitat, as they are able to live in most cities that lie in the shallower areas of the oceans and lakes. This variation is characterized by their permeable skin, unique hearing, biphasic lifestyle, and their ability to undergo drastic metamorphosis. This variation has many differences, but they are able to live both with other Thalassans and well among themselves. Many Saporans do tend to live further away from standard Thalassan society, leading to complications in social and cultural exchanges.

== Social Structures and Community ==

Early Thalassan History: Early in Pelagia the oceans were separated by fear and differences. The many variations of Thalassan led to such separation that the word Thalassan did not exist for much of Pelagia's history, they used different words to classify each other. This is where the existence of names like: Tiburan, Neptan, Koppo, and all the other names for intraspecific variation came to be as they were used for these separate tribes. Those words are not used often anymore as the more united Thalassan is much more popular, but older Thalassans still tend to prefer the distinction. These early tribes in Pelagia are long sense disbanded, but the ripple of the early waring periods of the tribes still affects modern Thalassan society. Groups like the Tiburon, the Valis, and the Koppo still benefit from their early dominance on Pelagia. The wealth they accumulated in those times still benefits their children and much of society is still dominated by these groups. Even though the world is not swayed by war and conflict anymore, those that are the strongest, fastest, and deadly still have more opportunities. Beauty standards, popular culture, fashion, and jobs still tend to be swayed by those ideas.

Pelagia holds many cities, all at varying depth and location to accommodate the many different variations. Variations that prefer depth and cold live in cities closer to the poles in the many trenches that carve Pelagia's surface, variations that prefer warmth live closer to he equator at floating surface cities. The variations that prefer to live in wetlands tend to live in the more rural patches of land that speckle the planet. However, the capital city of Pelagia named Coralia houses the widest variations of Thalassan and even many Abyssals.

Thalassan government operates as a partial representative democracy. Each member representing their own field, from engineering to arts. The members of this large council of leaders is decided by a series of tests according to their own fields and public voting, the combination is used to decide who would be the perfect pick. Issues and decisions are tackled by this group of leaders, each providing their perspective and view of how to make the perfect decision, this leads to many decisions taking a very long time. Each term of ruling lasts a short 42 years.

Families in the past were communally raised, and given independance as soon as a child was mature enough to make their own decision to leave or stay. Some Thalassans still do this, but a rising trend due to the individualistic nature of capitalism is a more closed off family structure. With two parents raising their children and once mature that child is forced out to begin their own path but still tied to their family.

== Religion and Spirituality ==
Thalassan's desire for perfectionism has left their previous spiritualist beliefs behind, belief in invisible forces like in religion or spiritualism is not popular, but it still does exist. Few Thalassans still truly believe but the most popular form of spiritualism is a form of Animism that revolves around the currents, waves, maelstroms, the sun, and their three moons. They believe each of these things along with other natural phenomena have their own will, that their is intention behind the chaos. That entropy itself is achieved through will. There is no singular name for it but many refer the idea as being one of a "blue mind".

Currents are viewed as the push and pull of energy, a invisible force that will guide you to where you need to go but over reliance on it will leave you lost or crushed. The instinctual push and pull of life guides all, and you must move through those currents of life with intention or else the oceans intentions will overtake you. Travelers that get caught in currents may view it as the ocean telling them where they must go, and so they listen while they are within it.

Waves represent the ebb and flow of life, that no matter how large you scale you will crash back down eventually only to be built back up into the next wave. You are not the individual wave, but the whole ocean. You will rise high and crash down, but there is more rising and crashing to follow. This is a very important piece of Thalassan philosophy as with their long lifespans there is a lot of time to fail, and having the reminder that you will exist beyond those is important.

Maelstroms are violent whirlpools, they represent turbulent intersections of energies. Different wills battling against one another, and while destructive in their wake they cleanse the energies of that region of ocean. The churning of the water revitalizes the area and uplifts hidden things. If you come across one it is advised that you avoid and go around, but provide an offering to ensure safe passage. The contribution will assist in the revitalization of the water after it has cleared.

The sun's heating and evaporation is a large cause of many ocean currents, as well as generating winds, and evaporation driving storms. The sun is a vital part of what causes the ocean to not only move, but live. Solar bodies represent entropy with intent, the intent of these solar bodies generates entropy and chaos in all that it touches, uneven heating generates winds, winds generate random currents, those energies push, pull and react to each till they dissipate. Great movers and shakers that despite their almost divine form, each action they take eventually breaks down. Chaos consumes, but in that chaos there is beauty. A reminder that no matter how large or powerful you are, or how small and weak all actions lead to the same result, ever echoing chaos and entropy. Each individual themselves is nothing more than the energy that came before, every action is outputting that energy that they are, and even long after they are gone the energy they put out will still be moving and transferring somewhere. No matter what even if you die, you actions will not, their impact will ripple through the universe forever. As energy can never be destroyed.

The three moons on Pelagia have immense spiritualistic meaning. The moons themselves create the chaotic and turbulent ocean that Pelagia holds, the push and pull against each other to create unique tides and waves every day. The three moons are sisters, their names are Tirina, Shura, and Mira. Mira represents the reflection of the Thalassan people, a reflection of their intent and will. Shura represents logic and stability, she is known to have the most stable orbit with it barely moving even a degree off the equator for as long as its been recorded. Tirina represents destruction, she is blackened by the ash of many asteroids and she is believed to be the cause of many tsunamis destructive currents and maelstroms. She is viewed to be Pelagia's anger. Each moon has different meanings at each phase with their new and full variations. During a full moon Mira is said to be reflecting the joy of the Pelagian people, and that she is providing them a feast, as hunting is most efficient in the bright light of the full moon. A full moon for Shura means that the oceans will be calm, and that tranquility is approaching. Tirina at a full moon represents a dangerous ocean, and that she wishes to watch as beings are crushed beneath her waves. New moons always have an ominous meaning behind them but are inverses of their full phase version.

== Technology and Science ==

Thalassan technology, naturally, integrates water into many of its components. From thermal regulation systems to immensely powerful hydraulics to jet propulsion, Thalassans have figured out how to use water to solve almost any engineering problem, creating an incredibly diverse set of devices and machinery based in the principles of the ocean surrounding them.

A notable problem Thalassans have to work around is waterproofing, as seawater can mercilessly erode anything given enough time. Two competing schools of thought exist with regard to solving this issue, with commercial products insisting the superiority of both: making vulnerable systems watertight or making all components compatible with the water around them.

Modern Thalassan magic tends to be harnessed through very specialized pieces of technology, allowing for control and adjustment to protect the user and allow for optimization. These devices tend to be tailored to the individual using them, with designs ranging from glove-like arm covers to remote mechs (all with a focus on allowing free flow around the user).

Major Thalassan cities and universities host frequent inventing, engineering, and robotics competitions. Those who win these competitions are awarded with massive status and opportunity, though perceived failures are punished with equal intensity.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Thalassans have a rather simple sense of fashion. Most civilians prefer lighter clothing of thinner, flowy fabric, a specific type of material that will not hinder their movement but instead grant them ease when swimming while still being considerably fashionable and expressive, even with rich, fancier appearances. Those of higher ranking enforce a more strict form of attire to uphold proper projection and ensure member safety with hydrodynamic gear/outfits (lightweight). These individuals also carry badges on their person, establishing a ranking of position in said company/division. Overall, this leads their attire to be less expressive in comparison to others but still maintains function— if not better. Occasionally, Thalassans hold scheduled seasonal fashion cycles to determine appropriate wear. They create their clothing with what their own world of water offers them. Marine biomass, extracting biopolymers from kelp and seaweed, using silky byssus threads to make sea silk— they use anything at their disposal, often including trade from offworld collaborators.

== Occupations ==

Thalassans find work in an incredibly wide variety of fields, embracing their goal of perfection in just about any occupation they have access to. Those in lower social positions often are restricted to more menial (yet still essential) tasks, where training can often run within families due to the costs associated with professional schooling. Those in higher social positions find themselves at the forefront of their chosen fields, with common aspirations including technological research, engineering design, and academia at large.

Many Thalassan jobs are confined to Pelagia, owing to the uniquely aquatic environment that many individuals find themselves performing best in. Those who do choose to work off-planet are usually at the top of their social spheres, and strive to be seen as leaders in their positions.

An incredibly common feature of most Thalassan workplaces is the implementation of a ranking system among each occupation. Each individual is ranked according to factors like overall performance, efficiency, and reliability, with constant updates as the day progresses. An individual's ranking determines many things about their life, influencing their social standing, pay levels, and ability to participate in the government, with occupational ranking being a major factor in deciding members of the governing council.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

What does travel look like for this species? What do ships native to their planet look like? Do they travel often? Do they have bustling ports or are they more closed off?

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

A big trivia section, basically. I'd encourage incorporating animal mannerisms and fun little traits that don't fit anywhere else.

== Notable Locations ==

THE LIGHTSCALE ISLANDS
The Lightscale Islands are the artificial island-like structures scattered around Pelagia's otherwise mostly oceanic surface which mark the uppermost access points to most major cities. Due to their nature as rare patches of dry land, they serve as the planet's major travel hubs, and the most common routes in and out of Thalassan society. Though the land itself is limited, there are major communities between the islands and the cities proper with significant air infrastructure to allow for collaborative work to be done between Thalassans and visitors. These areas see some of the highest performances of Thalassan perfection culture (second only to the capital, Coralia), with constant cleaning and upkeep involved in ensuring an outward image of perfection.

CORALIA
Coralia is the capital city of Pelagia, and the largest city in the Lucent Stratum. Its Lightscale Island is the most significant planetary hub on Pelagia, with many businesses having operating centers there, though access further into the city is heavily restricted to only the finest, most competent individuals. At the city's center is the Hall of Perfection, which acts as the seat of the Thalassan government and is where the ruling council meets. Surrounding the central chambers is a sprawling administrative complex, where many of the minutiae of Thalassan existence are dictated. Much of the rest of the city serves as a research hub, allowing the members of the council to spend their non-governing time contributing to the growth of their individual fields. The city is by far the most orderly space on Pelagia on every level, from the intense cleanliness measures to its overall hub-and-spokes design dividing the space into clear regions based on occupation.

SALTSPRAY PLATEAU
The Saltspray Plateau is a major hub of Thalassan industry, and the largest city of the Twilight Stratum. This space receives comparatively few outside visitors, with the majority of infrastructure designed for Thalassan locals to navigate most easily. The city has a constant hustle and bustle, leaving few quiet moments for residents. The more industrial sectors tend to focus predominantly on supporting on-world resources, including manufacturing facilities for designs produced in upper layers and maintenance support centers for the rest of the planet. The leisure sectors, on the other hand, are well-known for their neverending nightlife (in part sustained due to the lower light levels at these depths), drawing attention from across Thalassan society to give a break from the stress that expectations of perfection can bring.

THE GREAT BARRIERS
The divisions of the planet, the Strata separate Pelagia into almost different worlds despite being immediately adjacent to one another. The Great Barriers themselves exist to demarcate these divisions—though they do not actually block access from one side to another, they make clear the distinctions in expectations between the spaces. The Lucent-Twilight Barrier is quite active, and often exists largely for ceremonial and regulatory purposes than anything else. The Twilight-Noct Barrier, on the other hand, sits mostly abandoned on the edge of the Noct Stratum, as residents on either side tend to keep to themselves, with a sort of rust belt surrounding this space where ideas have either risen in the Thalassan ranks or been abandoned out of imperfections.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

Thalassans tend to maintain at least a working relationship with other species, as the resources and ideas that they can provide can prove quite useful in the advancement of perfection on Pelagia. However, this connection tends to be at the uppermost level in both societies, and Thalassans tend to focus primarily on their own success ahead of that of others. Some particular relations of note are listed below.

ABYSSAL
The Abyssal were once one of the many subspecies populating Pelagia's waters, though in the times before Thalassan unification they were already somewhat distant from the others by nature. Following the unification of the Thalassans and their growing focus on perfection, the Abyssal separated even more, withdrawing largely to the Noct Stratum where few Thalassans tended to go to avoid early Thalassan efforts to include them in their plans for unification. As such, the Abyssal tend to be viewed simply as notable outsiders among Thalassan society, though some have been acknowledged for tremendous potential in their fields (such as thermodynamic research or record-keeping). Despite this, they tend to be viewed with somewhat more trepidation than non-Pelagian outsiders, owing to the Noct Stratum's reputation for chaotic behavior and stories of lurking dangers.

AURELIANS
A fellow society proud to maintain an orderly understanding of the universe and innovation, Thalassan attitudes tend to be quite favorable towards Aurelians, especially among those in higher positions on Pelagia. The flow of ideas and tehcnologies between Pelagia and the Eden Construct is quite common, and collaboration between the two is relatively common. Thalassans, however, are quite fond of the ability to control and harness magic, and thus the Aurelian aversion to magic proves somewhat troublesome in collaborative endeavors, leaving Thalassans with a burning feeling that they could be achieving more.

FERRANS
Thalassans look kindly upon Ferrans and their fellow dedication to the advancement of scientific research, and quite frequently engage in trade with them for the many resources they have access to. Some Frame designs have even been used to inspire independent Thalassan technologies in the past.

LAGORANS AND CERVARI
Despite the technological prowess of the Lagorans, relations with the Thalassans have been mixed throughout history. The discovery of warpgate technology on Velora left a sour taste in the minds of many older Thalassans, who felt that it tarnished the reputation of Pelagia as the home of the most idealized technological development. However, following its initial introduction, those who were less inclined to hold a grudge became notable contributors to the more flowlike elements of warpgates (including optimized cooling systems and the use of waterproofing technology to shield the gates from the interstellar void), collaborating with individuals across many species and gaining major social capital for their success back on Pelagia. As a result, relations are now largely positive among younger Thalassans, though far more so with the Lagorans than the Cervari due to their technical expertise.

== Inspiration Images ==

Add visual references here!

== Concept Art ==

Add actual concept art here, stuff we made!

[[Category:Species]]

Thalassans

2026-06-01T02:03:25Z

MathNerd314: Added my updates for the day :D

Nythera

2026-05-30T01:00:00Z

MathNerd314: Added quote to the top!

{{Species
| name = Nythera
| image = Nythera_Art_One.png

| homeworld = Elyndra
Previously Chitara
| habitats = Dark and dense forests and jungles on Elyndra
| traits = Membranes similar to butterfly wings, doll-like joints, antennae, fangs
| writers = Dani
}}

<blockquote>
''"The flame which burns with color most unique is also the most delicate—let us kindle and protect each of our precious sparks in kind." — Nemain, member of the Morrigna''
</blockquote>

The Nythera are a bipedal, fae-like species that live in the dim, canopied forests of '''[[Elyndra]]'''. They are known for the butterfly wings on their face in place of regular eyes, alongside their extensive research into magic. They are long and slender humanoids with common traits being antennae, glowing patterns along their body, and a segmented tail with additional wing membranes along it. They live in clusters, small stone cities spread about under the shade of the forests. They’re a culture of magic and artisan works, famed for their weaving, textiles and libraries of arcane studies. The Nythera believe in self-expression and curiosity, yet their society is rather reluctant to let their people out from The Garden, believing much of the universe to be cruel. Only recently have they loosened their isolationist policies to interact with the other '''[[Planets And Spheres|spheres]]''' formally.

== Core Worldview ==

The Nythera believe in maintaining community, not wishing to leave the Garden Sphere. There is fascination in the great expanse of the sky, but after experiencing hardships long ago, they yearn for little but the life they have sown in Elyndra. They live short lives that decline with age, and so they are firm believers in self-expression; their lives are a candle that is meant to burn brightly until it dies out. With such fleeting lives, they treat death with ambiguity, almost something to laugh about amidst their elaborate funerary rites.

Their lives are meant to create and celebrate before they are consumed by their own magic.

== Physiology and Design ==

The Nytheras are slender, humanoids with butterfly and insectoid features. They have long limbs, typically with jet black, bodies, but they may come in other colors as well. They sport antennae and their bodies appear segmented, almost doll-like in shape. They have long tails, and it is commonly accompanied by glowing patterns along their body. Such patterns can shimmer and flash in accordance with their emotions and thoughts.

They are able to spin silk, but they have no wings upon their back for flying. They were never made to fly. It is said the ancestors of the Nythera had wings, yet that history has long been obscured.

Their most defining feature are the butterfly wings on their face. They can move and emote, in which the “eye spots” on the wings are actually their eyes. They are not actual wings, at least not ones that can serve any purpose of flying, perhaps better described as delicate membranes mimicking them. These structures appear as they age along the Nythera’s body, usually starting at their joints and extending to their tail. More and more grow, getting exponentially worse in their later years.

Nytheras prefer to live in low lighting. While their eyes may be adept to most lighting, the wing membranes are not. Bright light for too long can lead to deterioration. The membranes become more transparent in prolonged exposure, until only the frames remain.

Their height ranges from 5’8” to 7’0”. Nytheras can “live” to their 60s, but this is a highly contested number. The primary reason is due to the nature of '''Serglige''', making even the concept of death an ambiguous state.

== Serglige ==
The Serglige, sometimes referred to as the “wasting sickness” is a long accepted consequence of the ancestors of the Nythera, having migrated to Elyndra to survive the demise of their kind. It is uncertain of the exact origin of Serglige, but it was coined to describe a common affliction that affects Nythera as they get older. The main symptom is a gradual growth of wing membranes. It starts at the joints and grows more and more, getting exponentially more severe as they age. The reason it grows exponentially is because these wing membranes hold magic. That means that as they grow older and gain more wings, their capacity for magic grows. It does not make them inherently better in skill, simply allowing them to store that magic. The Nythera get these boons, yet it comes at the cost of shorter lives compared to most.

It gets to a point that the membranes hinder their mobility and magic degrades their mind. Even the act of passing away is an ordeal in of itself, where one’s body is ladened with wings until it renders them unable to move. The overgrowth dulls their senses, even to pain, and ensures that death is a painless process, leaving only a mound of butterflies in its wake. This is where the matter of “lifespan” is debated. With their increased capacity for magic, they are able to maintain their bodies to sustain life and execute automated actions as per their casting.

There has been extensive research into mitigating the loss of one’s mind to retain their advanced capacity for magic and extend their “lifespan”, and there has been some success.

== Food ==
Nytheras are omnivores. They are able to eat most vegetation of the canopies, greens and mosses and the sparse berries that flourish in the dim light. A lot of their diet handles mushrooms of all sorts, providing them some resistance to poisons and toxins local to Elyndra.

Despite their omnivorous palette, they lean into carnivorous diets. They kill and hunt local fauna, having sharp canines to tear into meat as needed. They often consume blood to obtain necessary nutrients, enabling them to preserve the meat for later. Some call them vampires for this; locals simply call it being resourceful.

== History ==
The Nytherans originated from a sphere named '''[[Chitara]]'''. They were much different back then, once called an extinct species named the '''[REDACTED]'''. Due to an event named The Final Sunset, where a passing sphere consumed Chitara’s primary star, the surface of Chitara was plunged into eternal night. Unable to adapt to the violent change in environment, many of them died off. Whilst the other species went underground, the '''[REDACTED]''' fled the planet. What few remnants of the species ventured to Elyndra, where they were embraced and welcomed into The Garden. Since then, they have forsaken whatever remained of their origins, evolving to adapt to the magic of Elyndra. That, in turn, has created the Nythera of the modern day.

== Social Structures and Community ==
The Nythera live in small cities scattered throughout the canopied forests.

=== Governance ===
The Nythera function in a sort of elective monarchy.

* Elective monarchy; sovereign (Ri), elected from
* Seelie

The Nythera function as a monarchy

* Monarchy (democratic monarchy)
* French government as inspo
* Two courts: Seelie and Unseelie court
** Seelie: Focused in magic research, military, and infrastructure?
** Unseelie: Focused in governance, operations, and diplomacy?
* Current monarch: N/Aa

== Religion and Spirituality ==
The main figurehead is someone called '''Calliach''' (“the Veiled One”). She is said to be an elder Nythera, an entity far beyond her years of existence and one of the few consistently successful individuals that has retained her mind despite the Serglige. She is revered and studied, hoping to bring salvation to those seeking her wisdom and magic. She resides in the [TBA]. In what little movement she can muster, it is said she spends a decade weaving a grand tapestry upon her loom, the Shranga Nialish (“Strings of Null”). At the end of that decade, she reveals it, said to be divining the threads of the Nullstar itself. It divines the future of Elyndra, setting the tone of the current governance of the Nythera.

The Nullstar is treated in a god-like sense, at least with the reverence of one, but they do not consider it a creator god. It’s a terminus to them where all threads return to. It is also why people are unbothered by the idea of studying the Nullstar. Entropy, change death, fatalism, husks from Serglige treated as a liminal state. Fatalist only in the embrace of being “undone,” but due to that ideology, they are pretty free with self expression.

=== Funerary Rites ===
Due to the nature of Serglige, that phenomenon has shaped their perception of life and death. Life and death are concepts considered in loose terms; what is

* Bas na Feola (“Death of the flesh”)

* Bas na Hanam (“Death of the soul”)

Due to the ambiguity of death, given their ties with mushrooms and how Serglige affects their population, death is treated with great reverence. It’s a natural thing, treated like another step of life.To put someone to rest, in case the body persists, they are laid in the sunlight for the wings to dry and magic to run out. Only then will the body cease to function and they may be put to proper rest. In between the death of the body and the death of the magic, each Nythera is put to rest in a different way. Perhaps the body is cared for by the family, perhaps they experience reverence and respect for the dead. Do they stop them from continuing their routine in this state or would they help ensure the body can continue its routine in the brain dead state? Which do they value? It all differs between each one.

Funerary clothes could be gifted/ spun from silk by the family and close companions. They lay them to rest with mushrooms, allowing them to decay and return to the soil

== Technology and Science ==

Unlike many other planets that either rely on technology or integrate magic into technology, the Nythera preferred to rely on magic for their lifestyle. They have a greater capacity to store mana in their wing membranes with age, allowing them to use magic more extensively before exhaustion. Their aptitude for magic is not derived from the born talent of their species, but rather their culture. With a culture known for weaving and silks, they have an easier time grasping fundamentals to understand magic as “strings to be woven.” However, even with that understanding, their magic can be volatile without proper handling. Common negative consequences of overusing magic may include exhaustion, mutilation (if magic is focused on a particular body part for extended periods of time), and damage to one’s mind. It may damage the soul in extreme cases but it’s rare. The Nythera often partake in rituals to better attune them to their environment to improve their control. Common components include fungi, flowers, and blood, and they are commonly carried in pouches for convenience.

They interact with magic in the way they interact with silks; they pluck strings like an instrument, or they weave the threads together. The Nythera may cast spells utilizing vocals: they hum or sing, and some even use instruments as a medium, plucking at the strings of the arcane. Some of their most prolific mages were singers and dancers.

As for their technology, it is not as advanced as their other planet peers. They see little need to compete on that front, sufficiently integrating technology into their magic to automate and enable mass production with less active oversight in those matters. Aspects of textile manufacturing, agriculture, and other essential functions are a few of those works automated by magitech. They may also utilize alchemy and potioncrafting due to their familiarity with herbs and how these components interact with magic.

One such common integration seen around Nytheran settlements are constructs forged from magic and tech, completing a variety of tasks for day to day life or general safety. Though many Nythera prefer magic, there has been a change to study and integrate more foreign technology as more foreigners visit Elyndra.

=== Divination ===
Nythera have a particular means of divination, but it is also one of their more prolific manifestations of magic. It is a taxing ritual, in which they weave together large, intricate tapestries made from their silks. Many mages come together to perform and interpret into messages and prophecies. They are known to be remarkably accurate.

Many diviners work with their religion, and some have participation in government, where they present divinations to the Seelie and Unseelie courts to deliberate on policies and governance. However, it is not a requirement to be a believer to practice divination. They simply get the easiest access to other diviners and resources to perform their divinations, thus improving the quality of their tapestries. Most diviners hail from Tagranach, trained in their youth. Many that utilize this magic regularly may have callous, damaged, or even disfigured hands. The more prolific diviners may have decorative claws to obscure and protect their damaged hands to continue weaving.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Fashion is a major aspect of society. With their major industries in textiles and artisan crafts, they have a wide variety of attires to sport. The only restriction on clothing is the consideration of their tail and the wing membranes along their body. They can cover the wing membranes, but it is ill advised to constrict them with tight sleeved clothing. Their fabric is high quality and durable, often having complex embroidereries.

The Nythera like to wear accessories such as jewelry with gemstones and draping fabrics. It is common to accessorize their tails with bands and bags to carry things. Sometimes, they even do piercings.

== Occupations ==

Common occupations include weavers or anything in textile manufacturing, performing arts roles, musicians, artists and other artisan positions. There is also a significant population that practices agriculture to sustain them.

Their most known occupations, outside of governance, relate to magic. Many Nytheras are mages and researchers, skilled in magic for a variety of uses. There is a notable size of teachers to educate both their own people and outsiders that have started to frequent their populace.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

Due to their distant origins from Chitara, they do have the capacity for space travel. They have the remnants of old technology for when their ancestors fled during the Final Sunset. Though their fleet is far and few, they have worked to ensure its functionality. There are a few newer models too, some almost insectoid in silhouette. However, their technology is relatively outdated. It works fine enough, given it has some modifications to adapt the old technology and their magic capabilities.

Despite their ability to do space travel, they would prefer not to. They understand the need to leave and interact with the stars, but they would rather not. Leaving Elyndra with the intent of forsaking the Garden Sphere is frowned upon. Attitudes towards space travel have changed in recent times. There were already changing sentiments leading up to the mission to go to The Anchor, but the mission solidified it further. Now, space travel is treated with ambivalence. As long as their travels are for their people, it can be permitted somewhat.

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

=== Festivals ===
Given their short lives and expression of magic and arts, they like to hold parties. It uplifts the spirit of their people and maintains friendly relations with the Slythae. It’s their means of instating their new sovereigns and how they enact diplomacy with others. The art of constructing such festivals and parties is a key skill of Nytheran politicians, however frivolous that sounds. Etiquette and decorum is a key aspect of it, however unorthodox it may be at times. Aside from their regular congregations with the Slythae, they have numerous festivals they host throughout the seasons:

'''Marvfesh:''' (“elegy”) It is a festival in memory of the deceased. It celebrates their life and the ambiguity of death. It is also a day dedicated to putting their lingering elders to rest, if they are deemed “deceased in the mind.” Those laid to rest in these days are considered

'''Fayla Blahfar:''' (“blooming festival”) A showcase of the arts across several days, celebrating their artisans in a complex gallery of sorts. The main events are showcases of their tapestries at dawn and a performance at dusk.

'''Glor na Morrigna:''' (“Voice of the Morrigna”) A religious festival at the start of the year. It is mostly a formal celebration of their faith, giving offerings and visiting the Calliach’s abode. The festival ends with the Morrigna divining for the Nythera. It grants the year good tidings. Once a decade, the Calliach imparts her divination, in which those special variants of the festivals are called the Glor na Calliach (“Voice of the Calliach”). The tapestry is gifted to the reigning monarch as an omen for their rule. This is the only festival that takes place exclusively at nighttime.

=== Arts ===
Due to their masterwork in spinning silks and weaving cloth, their culture has always had an emphasis in the arts. Why dream of the vast expanse overhead, when all over could ever dream of laid at their feet? The fine arts are integral to their society, best known for their textiles and performing arts. They have a culture of gift giving; the act of crafting for another rather than mere purchase is considered common practice. Mass produced items as personal gifts (for special events such as holidays) is considered rude.

Magecraft, in their eyes, is also considered an art. They spend day and night honing their craft. They host several schools and facilities to study and perfect their understanding of magic. Due to their greater capacity for magic, they are one of the more magically competent species.

Artisan works and textile manufacturing are their primary exports. There are also several significant idols and mages that gain traction amongst Elyndra and other planets.

For their performing arts, music is their main art. Most folks learn some string instrument if they aren’t trained in weaving, as it aids in understanding the fundamentals of magic. Their primary instruments are strings and vocals alongside the occasional percussion instrument. They call their style of singing Macalla Nos (“echoed style”). Their vocals utilize a lot of vibrato, operatic techniques, and melismatic singing. They have the capacity to distort and echo their voice slightly, using magic to that effect for more varied music. This may cause discomfort to the listener if they are not adjusted to Macalla Nos. Such distorting effects may be applied to string instruments, too, as both are a means of channeling their magic.

=== Etiquette ===
Etiquette is not something that is all-consuming in their day-to-day lives. However, it is a key aspect of their celebrations. The Nythera have particular rules as a sort of decorum they adhere to amidst festivals and especially during diplomacy. Failure to adhere to these rules could be considered a faux pas and result in needless conflict. Specific rules may vary between festivals, but the more common ones as follows:

* Names are rarely spoken aloud during festivals; titles or epithets are used in place. Using one’s name is akin to a direct challenge or perceived as hostile.
* Do not spill or waste any drinks.
* If there must be gifts, bring them in pairs.
* Do not thank each other, it implies debt to the other party.

It is never clear as to when or why they established such decorum, exclusive to their festivities. Some say it was a lingering habit of a flourishing bygone reign, eccentricities mimicked in hopes of inviting good tidings. Others suggest it is a means of protection; celebration may be seen as a point of weakness, so such rules are a means of warding off ill omens. The occasional outsider remarks that these customs only remain due to the sheer amusement it brings to inconvenience outsiders, akin to one convoluted inside joke.

Who knows.

=== Misc ===

* Their stories and mythos often put things in pairs or multiples of 2. A lot of their traditions reflect this, too. It’s because their time of unity with the Slythae only comes twice a day, one at dawn and the second at dusk.
* Imagery of dawn and dusk is also prevalent since it is the few times that is not too bright for the Nythera and not too dark for the Slythae. They often hold festivities and parties at dawn and dusk, too.

== Notable Locations ==

=== Elfame ===
Elfame is the name of their most prominent city, their capital of sorts. It is the largest gathering of Nythera, where most of their economic and government activities occur. It is a sprawling city at the heart of their innumerable canopied forests. Here lies the heart of their governance, where the monarchy resides. This is also where their educational institutions for magic are focused in, too. The performing arts thrive in this place. Anything that’s worth anything will likely happen here, be it social or magical in nature.

=== Tagranach ===
The second largest city, far north of Elfame. It is colder and their forests are more evergreen, accompanied by fungal canopies. Here lies the heart of their religion. It is where the Cailliach resides to share her wisdom of the Nullstar. Most divinations will transpire here due to available resources. It is surprisingly peaceful, albeit uneasy to outsiders with the “faint, looming presence of death” as they say. A lot of musicians and weavers congregate here.

=== Other Settlements ===

==== Skaaglen ====
A settlement of magic and ends, southeast of Tagranach. A lot of arcane scholars arrive here to study the dead and how mana flows through the bodies of elder Nythera. With the old age of Nythera suffering from the Serglige, many have been reduced to mindless husks that behave like puppets; they are reduced to their old routines, sustained by magic that consumes their body. It is sometimes called the “Cairn,” as it is where some Nythera are put to final rest. It is decorated with numerous cairns scattered about the settlement.

==== Fieltan ====
It is one of the more prominent places to conduct festivals or business. West of Elfame, it lays at the edge of their canopied forests. It is a settlement that is mostly decorative, a sprawling open town with plenty of space for party arrangements. It is occasionally called the “Half-Light” as it is distinctly presented as a place literally half in the shade, half in the light.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

=== Nytheran-Sylthae Relations ===
The Nythera and Slythae have coexisted for a long time. Perhaps, there was once a time they avoided each other by nature of their opposing constitutions; one required the sunlight to thrive while the other had to avoid it. That has changed, given their shared affinity for Elyndra and capacity for magic. They have found ways to coexist and thrive together. It also helps that the Sylthae are lax in nature, making it easier to communicate on peaceful terms.

All of Elyndra has a culture of “party hours” throughout the years and days. These include annual celebrations, but also the casual festivities that occur every dawn and dusk. Parties at Dawn are hosted by Sylthae in honor of long sunny days ahead. Parties at Dusk are hosted by Nythera to rejoice in the dim glow of moonlight all night long. While Sylthae and Nythera may celebrate these separately, they often come together in “Party Towns” to celebrate together. This is a very special bond since dawn and dusk are the only times where it is light enough for the Slythae and dim enough for the Nythera to coexist. It is also why Nythera values things in pairs, for the dawn and dusk that brings them together to their Sylthae peers.

=== Relations with Foreigners ===
The Nythera are generally wary of foreigners. Though capable of space travel, they once had more isolationist policies as a means of protecting themselves. They had minimal reason to expand their trading or seek more territory due to their constitution and general dislike for leaving Elyndra. In the recent decades, they have significantly lessened these policies. They accept all sorts of visitors who had ventured to study their magic and arts, however, there are numerous regulations for them. There are few outsiders that stay for the long term.

They are generally indifferent, if not cautious, towards most species. They are especially cautious of Carcids and Lepterans, as they have been made into tall tales by them like boogeymen that caused the Final Sunset. The only other species they are particularly guarded towards are the Aurelians, as they see them as an imperialist group that wishes to smother their capacity for magic. They hardly entertain their “guidance” when they must participate in diplomacy.

== Concept Art ==
[[File:Nythera_Fullbody1.png|none|thumb|Art by Dani @duckitape]]
[[File:Nythera_Fullbody2.png|none|thumb|Art by Dani @duckitape]]
[[File:Nythera_Fullbody3.png|none|thumb|Art by Dani @duckitape]]
[[File:Nythera Art Two.png|none|thumb|An elder Nythera individual. Art by Dani @duckitape]]
[[File:Nythera_Serglige.png|none|thumb|Progression of the Serglige. Art by Dani @duckitape]]
[[File:Nythera_ColorStyle.png|none|thumb|Many colorful variations among the Nythera. Art by Dani @duckitape]]
[[File:Nythera_Clothing.png|none|thumb|Concepts for Nythera clothing. Art by Dani @duckitape]]

[[Category:Species]]

User:MathNerd314

2026-05-29T16:05:39Z

MathNerd314: Created page with "It's kind of fun to do the impossible."

It's kind of fun to do the impossible.

Nythera

2026-05-29T15:58:57Z

MathNerd314: /* Concept Art */ Uploaded and captioned a bunch of Dani's concept arts!

{{Species
| name = Nythera
| image = Nythera_Art_One.png

| homeworld = Elyndra
Previously Chitara
| habitats = Dark and dense forests and jungles on Elyndra
| traits = Membranes similar to butterfly wings, doll-like joints, antennae, fangs
| writers = Dani
}}

<blockquote>
''"Optional species quote or defining cultural phrase." — Someone from this species''
</blockquote>

The Nythera are a bipedal, fae-like species that live in the dim, canopied forests of '''[[Elyndra]]'''. They are known for the butterfly wings on their face in place of regular eyes, alongside their extensive research into magic. They are long and slender humanoids with common traits being antennae, glowing patterns along their body, and a segmented tail with additional wing membranes along it. They live in clusters, small stone cities spread about under the shade of the forests. They’re a culture of magic and artisan works, famed for their weaving, textiles and libraries of arcane studies. The Nythera believe in self-expression and curiosity, yet their society is rather reluctant to let their people out from The Garden, believing much of the universe to be cruel. Only recently have they loosened their isolationist policies to interact with the other '''[[Planets And Spheres|spheres]]''' formally.

== Core Worldview ==

The Nythera believe in maintaining community, not wishing to leave the Garden Sphere. There is fascination in the great expanse of the sky, but after experiencing hardships long ago, they yearn for little but the life they have sown in Elyndra. They live short lives that decline with age, and so they are firm believers in self-expression; their lives are a candle that is meant to burn brightly until it dies out. With such fleeting lives, they treat death with ambiguity, almost something to laugh about amidst their elaborate funerary rites.

Their lives are meant to create and celebrate before they are consumed by their own magic.

== Physiology and Design ==

The Nytheras are slender, humanoids with butterfly and insectoid features. They have long limbs, typically with jet black, bodies, but they may come in other colors as well. They sport antennae and their bodies appear segmented, almost doll-like in shape. They have long tails, and it is commonly accompanied by glowing patterns along their body. Such patterns can shimmer and flash in accordance with their emotions and thoughts.

They are able to spin silk, but they have no wings upon their back for flying. They were never made to fly. It is said the ancestors of the Nythera had wings, yet that history has long been obscured.

Their most defining feature are the butterfly wings on their face. They can move and emote, in which the “eye spots” on the wings are actually their eyes. They are not actual wings, at least not ones that can serve any purpose of flying, perhaps better described as delicate membranes mimicking them. These structures appear as they age along the Nythera’s body, usually starting at their joints and extending to their tail. More and more grow, getting exponentially worse in their later years.

Nytheras prefer to live in low lighting. While their eyes may be adept to most lighting, the wing membranes are not. Bright light for too long can lead to deterioration. The membranes become more transparent in prolonged exposure, until only the frames remain.

Their height ranges from 5’8” to 7’0”. Nytheras can “live” to their 60s, but this is a highly contested number. The primary reason is due to the nature of '''Serglige''', making even the concept of death an ambiguous state.

== Serglige ==
The Serglige, sometimes referred to as the “wasting sickness” is a long accepted consequence of the ancestors of the Nythera, having migrated to Elyndra to survive the demise of their kind. It is uncertain of the exact origin of Serglige, but it was coined to describe a common affliction that affects Nythera as they get older. The main symptom is a gradual growth of wing membranes. It starts at the joints and grows more and more, getting exponentially more severe as they age. The reason it grows exponentially is because these wing membranes hold magic. That means that as they grow older and gain more wings, their capacity for magic grows. It does not make them inherently better in skill, simply allowing them to store that magic. The Nythera get these boons, yet it comes at the cost of shorter lives compared to most.

It gets to a point that the membranes hinder their mobility and magic degrades their mind. Even the act of passing away is an ordeal in of itself, where one’s body is ladened with wings until it renders them unable to move. The overgrowth dulls their senses, even to pain, and ensures that death is a painless process, leaving only a mound of butterflies in its wake. This is where the matter of “lifespan” is debated. With their increased capacity for magic, they are able to maintain their bodies to sustain life and execute automated actions as per their casting.

There has been extensive research into mitigating the loss of one’s mind to retain their advanced capacity for magic and extend their “lifespan”, and there has been some success.

== Food ==
Nytheras are omnivores. They are able to eat most vegetation of the canopies, greens and mosses and the sparse berries that flourish in the dim light. A lot of their diet handles mushrooms of all sorts, providing them some resistance to poisons and toxins local to Elyndra.

Despite their omnivorous palette, they lean into carnivorous diets. They kill and hunt local fauna, having sharp canines to tear into meat as needed. They often consume blood to obtain necessary nutrients, enabling them to preserve the meat for later. Some call them vampires for this; locals simply call it being resourceful.

== History ==
The Nytherans originated from a sphere named '''[[Chitara]]'''. They were much different back then, once called an extinct species named the '''[REDACTED]'''. Due to an event named The Final Sunset, where a passing sphere consumed Chitara’s primary star, the surface of Chitara was plunged into eternal night. Unable to adapt to the violent change in environment, many of them died off. Whilst the other species went underground, the '''[REDACTED]''' fled the planet. What few remnants of the species ventured to Elyndra, where they were embraced and welcomed into The Garden. Since then, they have forsaken whatever remained of their origins, evolving to adapt to the magic of Elyndra. That, in turn, has created the Nythera of the modern day.

== Social Structures and Community ==
The Nythera live in small cities scattered throughout the canopied forests.

=== Governance ===
The Nythera function in a sort of elective monarchy.

* Elective monarchy; sovereign (Ri), elected from
* Seelie

The Nythera function as a monarchy

* Monarchy (democratic monarchy)
* French government as inspo
* Two courts: Seelie and Unseelie court
** Seelie: Focused in magic research, military, and infrastructure?
** Unseelie: Focused in governance, operations, and diplomacy?
* Current monarch: N/Aa

== Religion and Spirituality ==
The main figurehead is someone called '''Calliach''' (“the Veiled One”). She is said to be an elder Nythera, an entity far beyond her years of existence and one of the few consistently successful individuals that has retained her mind despite the Serglige. She is revered and studied, hoping to bring salvation to those seeking her wisdom and magic. She resides in the [TBA]. In what little movement she can muster, it is said she spends a decade weaving a grand tapestry upon her loom, the Shranga Nialish (“Strings of Null”). At the end of that decade, she reveals it, said to be divining the threads of the Nullstar itself. It divines the future of Elyndra, setting the tone of the current governance of the Nythera.

The Nullstar is treated in a god-like sense, at least with the reverence of one, but they do not consider it a creator god. It’s a terminus to them where all threads return to. It is also why people are unbothered by the idea of studying the Nullstar. Entropy, change death, fatalism, husks from Serglige treated as a liminal state. Fatalist only in the embrace of being “undone,” but due to that ideology, they are pretty free with self expression.

=== Funerary Rites ===
Due to the nature of Serglige, that phenomenon has shaped their perception of life and death. Life and death are concepts considered in loose terms; what is

* Bas na Feola (“Death of the flesh”)

* Bas na Hanam (“Death of the soul”)

Due to the ambiguity of death, given their ties with mushrooms and how Serglige affects their population, death is treated with great reverence. It’s a natural thing, treated like another step of life.To put someone to rest, in case the body persists, they are laid in the sunlight for the wings to dry and magic to run out. Only then will the body cease to function and they may be put to proper rest. In between the death of the body and the death of the magic, each Nythera is put to rest in a different way. Perhaps the body is cared for by the family, perhaps they experience reverence and respect for the dead. Do they stop them from continuing their routine in this state or would they help ensure the body can continue its routine in the brain dead state? Which do they value? It all differs between each one.

Funerary clothes could be gifted/ spun from silk by the family and close companions. They lay them to rest with mushrooms, allowing them to decay and return to the soil

== Technology and Science ==

Unlike many other planets that either rely on technology or integrate magic into technology, the Nythera preferred to rely on magic for their lifestyle. They have a greater capacity to store mana in their wing membranes with age, allowing them to use magic more extensively before exhaustion. Their aptitude for magic is not derived from the born talent of their species, but rather their culture. With a culture known for weaving and silks, they have an easier time grasping fundamentals to understand magic as “strings to be woven.” However, even with that understanding, their magic can be volatile without proper handling. Common negative consequences of overusing magic may include exhaustion, mutilation (if magic is focused on a particular body part for extended periods of time), and damage to one’s mind. It may damage the soul in extreme cases but it’s rare. The Nythera often partake in rituals to better attune them to their environment to improve their control. Common components include fungi, flowers, and blood, and they are commonly carried in pouches for convenience.

They interact with magic in the way they interact with silks; they pluck strings like an instrument, or they weave the threads together. The Nythera may cast spells utilizing vocals: they hum or sing, and some even use instruments as a medium, plucking at the strings of the arcane. Some of their most prolific mages were singers and dancers.

As for their technology, it is not as advanced as their other planet peers. They see little need to compete on that front, sufficiently integrating technology into their magic to automate and enable mass production with less active oversight in those matters. Aspects of textile manufacturing, agriculture, and other essential functions are a few of those works automated by magitech. They may also utilize alchemy and potioncrafting due to their familiarity with herbs and how these components interact with magic.

One such common integration seen around Nytheran settlements are constructs forged from magic and tech, completing a variety of tasks for day to day life or general safety. Though many Nythera prefer magic, there has been a change to study and integrate more foreign technology as more foreigners visit Elyndra.

=== Divination ===
Nythera have a particular means of divination, but it is also one of their more prolific manifestations of magic. It is a taxing ritual, in which they weave together large, intricate tapestries made from their silks. Many mages come together to perform and interpret into messages and prophecies. They are known to be remarkably accurate.

Many diviners work with their religion, and some have participation in government, where they present divinations to the Seelie and Unseelie courts to deliberate on policies and governance. However, it is not a requirement to be a believer to practice divination. They simply get the easiest access to other diviners and resources to perform their divinations, thus improving the quality of their tapestries. Most diviners hail from Tagranach, trained in their youth. Many that utilize this magic regularly may have callous, damaged, or even disfigured hands. The more prolific diviners may have decorative claws to obscure and protect their damaged hands to continue weaving.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Fashion is a major aspect of society. With their major industries in textiles and artisan crafts, they have a wide variety of attires to sport. The only restriction on clothing is the consideration of their tail and the wing membranes along their body. They can cover the wing membranes, but it is ill advised to constrict them with tight sleeved clothing. Their fabric is high quality and durable, often having complex embroidereries.

The Nythera like to wear accessories such as jewelry with gemstones and draping fabrics. It is common to accessorize their tails with bands and bags to carry things. Sometimes, they even do piercings.

== Occupations ==

Common occupations include weavers or anything in textile manufacturing, performing arts roles, musicians, artists and other artisan positions. There is also a significant population that practices agriculture to sustain them.

Their most known occupations, outside of governance, relate to magic. Many Nytheras are mages and researchers, skilled in magic for a variety of uses. There is a notable size of teachers to educate both their own people and outsiders that have started to frequent their populace.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

Due to their distant origins from Chitara, they do have the capacity for space travel. They have the remnants of old technology for when their ancestors fled during the Final Sunset. Though their fleet is far and few, they have worked to ensure its functionality. There are a few newer models too, some almost insectoid in silhouette. However, their technology is relatively outdated. It works fine enough, given it has some modifications to adapt the old technology and their magic capabilities.

Despite their ability to do space travel, they would prefer not to. They understand the need to leave and interact with the stars, but they would rather not. Leaving Elyndra with the intent of forsaking the Garden Sphere is frowned upon. Attitudes towards space travel have changed in recent times. There were already changing sentiments leading up to the mission to go to The Anchor, but the mission solidified it further. Now, space travel is treated with ambivalence. As long as their travels are for their people, it can be permitted somewhat.

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

=== Festivals ===
Given their short lives and expression of magic and arts, they like to hold parties. It uplifts the spirit of their people and maintains friendly relations with the Slythae. It’s their means of instating their new sovereigns and how they enact diplomacy with others. The art of constructing such festivals and parties is a key skill of Nytheran politicians, however frivolous that sounds. Etiquette and decorum is a key aspect of it, however unorthodox it may be at times. Aside from their regular congregations with the Slythae, they have numerous festivals they host throughout the seasons:

'''Marvfesh:''' (“elegy”) It is a festival in memory of the deceased. It celebrates their life and the ambiguity of death. It is also a day dedicated to putting their lingering elders to rest, if they are deemed “deceased in the mind.” Those laid to rest in these days are considered

'''Fayla Blahfar:''' (“blooming festival”) A showcase of the arts across several days, celebrating their artisans in a complex gallery of sorts. The main events are showcases of their tapestries at dawn and a performance at dusk.

'''Glor na Morrigna:''' (“Voice of the Morrigna”) A religious festival at the start of the year. It is mostly a formal celebration of their faith, giving offerings and visiting the Calliach’s abode. The festival ends with the Morrigna divining for the Nythera. It grants the year good tidings. Once a decade, the Calliach imparts her divination, in which those special variants of the festivals are called the Glor na Calliach (“Voice of the Calliach”). The tapestry is gifted to the reigning monarch as an omen for their rule. This is the only festival that takes place exclusively at nighttime.

=== Arts ===
Due to their masterwork in spinning silks and weaving cloth, their culture has always had an emphasis in the arts. Why dream of the vast expanse overhead, when all over could ever dream of laid at their feet? The fine arts are integral to their society, best known for their textiles and performing arts. They have a culture of gift giving; the act of crafting for another rather than mere purchase is considered common practice. Mass produced items as personal gifts (for special events such as holidays) is considered rude.

Magecraft, in their eyes, is also considered an art. They spend day and night honing their craft. They host several schools and facilities to study and perfect their understanding of magic. Due to their greater capacity for magic, they are one of the more magically competent species.

Artisan works and textile manufacturing are their primary exports. There are also several significant idols and mages that gain traction amongst Elyndra and other planets.

For their performing arts, music is their main art. Most folks learn some string instrument if they aren’t trained in weaving, as it aids in understanding the fundamentals of magic. Their primary instruments are strings and vocals alongside the occasional percussion instrument. They call their style of singing Macalla Nos (“echoed style”). Their vocals utilize a lot of vibrato, operatic techniques, and melismatic singing. They have the capacity to distort and echo their voice slightly, using magic to that effect for more varied music. This may cause discomfort to the listener if they are not adjusted to Macalla Nos. Such distorting effects may be applied to string instruments, too, as both are a means of channeling their magic.

=== Etiquette ===
Etiquette is not something that is all-consuming in their day-to-day lives. However, it is a key aspect of their celebrations. The Nythera have particular rules as a sort of decorum they adhere to amidst festivals and especially during diplomacy. Failure to adhere to these rules could be considered a faux pas and result in needless conflict. Specific rules may vary between festivals, but the more common ones as follows:

* Names are rarely spoken aloud during festivals; titles or epithets are used in place. Using one’s name is akin to a direct challenge or perceived as hostile.
* Do not spill or waste any drinks.
* If there must be gifts, bring them in pairs.
* Do not thank each other, it implies debt to the other party.

It is never clear as to when or why they established such decorum, exclusive to their festivities. Some say it was a lingering habit of a flourishing bygone reign, eccentricities mimicked in hopes of inviting good tidings. Others suggest it is a means of protection; celebration may be seen as a point of weakness, so such rules are a means of warding off ill omens. The occasional outsider remarks that these customs only remain due to the sheer amusement it brings to inconvenience outsiders, akin to one convoluted inside joke.

Who knows.

=== Misc ===

* Their stories and mythos often put things in pairs or multiples of 2. A lot of their traditions reflect this, too. It’s because their time of unity with the Slythae only comes twice a day, one at dawn and the second at dusk.
* Imagery of dawn and dusk is also prevalent since it is the few times that is not too bright for the Nythera and not too dark for the Slythae. They often hold festivities and parties at dawn and dusk, too.

== Notable Locations ==

=== Elfame ===
Elfame is the name of their most prominent city, their capital of sorts. It is the largest gathering of Nythera, where most of their economic and government activities occur. It is a sprawling city at the heart of their innumerable canopied forests. Here lies the heart of their governance, where the monarchy resides. This is also where their educational institutions for magic are focused in, too. The performing arts thrive in this place. Anything that’s worth anything will likely happen here, be it social or magical in nature.

=== Tagranach ===
The second largest city, far north of Elfame. It is colder and their forests are more evergreen, accompanied by fungal canopies. Here lies the heart of their religion. It is where the Cailliach resides to share her wisdom of the Nullstar. Most divinations will transpire here due to available resources. It is surprisingly peaceful, albeit uneasy to outsiders with the “faint, looming presence of death” as they say. A lot of musicians and weavers congregate here.

=== Other Settlements ===

==== Skaaglen ====
A settlement of magic and ends, southeast of Tagranach. A lot of arcane scholars arrive here to study the dead and how mana flows through the bodies of elder Nythera. With the old age of Nythera suffering from the Serglige, many have been reduced to mindless husks that behave like puppets; they are reduced to their old routines, sustained by magic that consumes their body. It is sometimes called the “Cairn,” as it is where some Nythera are put to final rest. It is decorated with numerous cairns scattered about the settlement.

==== Fieltan ====
It is one of the more prominent places to conduct festivals or business. West of Elfame, it lays at the edge of their canopied forests. It is a settlement that is mostly decorative, a sprawling open town with plenty of space for party arrangements. It is occasionally called the “Half-Light” as it is distinctly presented as a place literally half in the shade, half in the light.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

=== Nytheran-Sylthae Relations ===
The Nythera and Slythae have coexisted for a long time. Perhaps, there was once a time they avoided each other by nature of their opposing constitutions; one required the sunlight to thrive while the other had to avoid it. That has changed, given their shared affinity for Elyndra and capacity for magic. They have found ways to coexist and thrive together. It also helps that the Sylthae are lax in nature, making it easier to communicate on peaceful terms.

All of Elyndra has a culture of “party hours” throughout the years and days. These include annual celebrations, but also the casual festivities that occur every dawn and dusk. Parties at Dawn are hosted by Sylthae in honor of long sunny days ahead. Parties at Dusk are hosted by Nythera to rejoice in the dim glow of moonlight all night long. While Sylthae and Nythera may celebrate these separately, they often come together in “Party Towns” to celebrate together. This is a very special bond since dawn and dusk are the only times where it is light enough for the Slythae and dim enough for the Nythera to coexist. It is also why Nythera values things in pairs, for the dawn and dusk that brings them together to their Sylthae peers.

=== Relations with Foreigners ===
The Nythera are generally wary of foreigners. Though capable of space travel, they once had more isolationist policies as a means of protecting themselves. They had minimal reason to expand their trading or seek more territory due to their constitution and general dislike for leaving Elyndra. In the recent decades, they have significantly lessened these policies. They accept all sorts of visitors who had ventured to study their magic and arts, however, there are numerous regulations for them. There are few outsiders that stay for the long term.

They are generally indifferent, if not cautious, towards most species. They are especially cautious of Carcids and Lepterans, as they have been made into tall tales by them like boogeymen that caused the Final Sunset. The only other species they are particularly guarded towards are the Aurelians, as they see them as an imperialist group that wishes to smother their capacity for magic. They hardly entertain their “guidance” when they must participate in diplomacy.

== Concept Art ==
[[File:Nythera_Fullbody1.png|none|thumb|Art by Dani @duckitape]]
[[File:Nythera_Fullbody2.png|none|thumb|Art by Dani @duckitape]]
[[File:Nythera_Fullbody3.png|none|thumb|Art by Dani @duckitape]]
[[File:Nythera Art Two.png|none|thumb|An elder Nythera individual. Art by Dani @duckitape]]
[[File:Nythera_Serglige.png|none|thumb|Progression of the Serglige. Art by Dani @duckitape]]
[[File:Nythera_ColorStyle.png|none|thumb|Many colorful variations among the Nythera. Art by Dani @duckitape]]
[[File:Nythera_Clothing.png|none|thumb|Concepts for Nythera clothing. Art by Dani @duckitape]]

[[Category:Species]]

File:Nythera ColorStyle.png

2026-05-29T15:53:14Z

MathNerd314: Concept art of many Nythera individuals showcasing some of their potential variations. Art by Dani.

== Summary ==
Concept art of many Nythera individuals showcasing some of their potential variations. Art by Dani.

File:Nythera Serglige.png

2026-05-29T15:52:30Z

MathNerd314: Concept art depicting the evolution of the Serglige in the Nythera. Art by Dani.

== Summary ==
Concept art depicting the evolution of the Serglige in the Nythera. Art by Dani.

File:Nythera Clothing.png

2026-05-29T15:51:57Z

MathNerd314: Concept art for Nythera clothing. Art by Dani.

== Summary ==
Concept art for Nythera clothing. Art by Dani.

File:Nythera Fullbody3.png

2026-05-29T15:51:20Z

MathNerd314: Fullbody image of Nythera individual (3 of 3). Art by Dani.

== Summary ==
Fullbody image of Nythera individual (3 of 3). Art by Dani.

File:Nythera Fullbody2.png

2026-05-29T15:50:58Z

MathNerd314: Fullbody image of Nythera individual (2 of 3). Art by Dani.

== Summary ==
Fullbody image of Nythera individual (2 of 3). Art by Dani.

File:Nythera Fullbody1.png

2026-05-29T15:50:27Z

MathNerd314: Fullbody image of Nythera individual (1 of 3). Art by Dani.

== Summary ==
Fullbody image of Nythera individual (1 of 3). Art by Dani.

The Aurelium Exculta

2026-05-29T15:35:34Z

MathNerd314: Updated table image to showcase the Aurelians themselves as suggested in #general

<blockquote>
''"Nothing is permanent on Eden, afterall." — Unknown Aurelian''
</blockquote>{{Species
| name = The Aurelium Exculta
| image = Aurelian_Concept_Two.png

| homeworld = The Eden Construct
| habitats = Artificial structures
| traits = Human features, pointed ears, colorful markings
| writers = Kay, Xavier
}}

Despite their pointed ears, colorful markings, and varied skin tones, Aurelians take pride in their similarities to the '''[[Humanity|humans]]''' of old. Being native to their artificial construct world '''[[The Eden Construct|Eden]]''', they view themselves as conquerors of nature’s laws. Surrounded by machinery and steel, Aurelians believe in the Binary, the innate ability for a machine to communicate regardless of its programmed functions. They favor order and predictability, creating a culture that is ever evolving as it breaks down knowledge in order to understand and incorporate it into their society. The sole exception to this is magic, which has been widely outlawed due to its chaotic nature. This, coupled with their desire to influence the universe with their worldviews, has labeled them as brash colonizers by other species. Despite this, Aurelians harbor numerous trade relations and are, at the very least, cordial in their dealings. Regardless of their views, trade is important in the upkeep of the Eden Construct, especially as overpopulation slowly plagues their society.

== Core Worldview ==
Aurelians often see themselves as conquerors of the natural universe. While others had to settle on a planet and adapt to it, the Aurelians constructed their own planet to live on, refusing to bend to the challenges the universe presented them. Because of this, many believe they have the ability to craft pure and raw power with their hands and minds. Living on the Eden Construct has greatly shaped their worldview, enjoying certainty, predictability, and order.

Living on an artificial planet has also heavily influenced their work beliefs. Everyone must contribute to the betterment/maintenance of their planet, and given their belief of the mechanical Binary, their planet is essentially a living organism of their own creation that must be taken care of. They emphasize the preservation of history and culture to keep track of Eden’s health, a habit they carried over from their ancestors after they watched their homeworld fragment.

Because of their desire for order/predictability, many things that are unknown to them are meticulously broken down to reveal their inner workings so their pattern can be understood. The sole exception of this is magic, which the vast majority of Aurelians view as heretical (technomancy is one of the few magic types allowed, but it is not viewed as magic).

They have the perspective that they need to help those around them due to an innate belief that because they can help other species, '''they should.'''

== Physiology and Design ==
Aurelians rarely live past a century, sharing similar life spans to humans. All Aurelians are humanoid in shape with pointy ears. Common traits include: markings of several sizes, shapes, and colors; a variety of colors in skin.

While it may not be clear to others, there are subtle differences Aurelians can see within themselves that denote certain attributes about their lifestyle. T

* Asteruleus: Aurelians from this class are slightly taller and more slender, emphasizing generations spent in regal settings. Have more star shaped patterns and markings, often resembling celestial bodies etc.
* Kathebrum: Aurelians from this class often mimic the technology they so-often work with. Some markings may mimic circuits on a motherboard, or their fingerprints are geometric in nature rather than organic and spiralling. Some may reflect their holy work, with bright silver/white streaks in their hair or pastel marking/hair color or skin that shines brighter than the average Aurelian. (These markings glow stronger than others when using said magic)
* Mechinos: Aurelians from this class have spindly hands to aid in their computer work. Additionally, many of their markings, whether big or small, are patterns that can stretch across their entire body (mimics lines of code/1s and 0s).
* Skoredem: Aurelians from this class are generally stocky and heavyset, having adapted to constantly carrying heavy materials for construction. Markings are more akin to welding marks, sparks or fireworks. Markings are more commonly among their hands or arms.
* Syntrubeus: Aurelians from this class range from stocky and heavyset to spindly and lithe depending on their ancestral job. However, many Syntrubeus have markings that extend from their eyes, a reminder of the fast-paced labor this class is often consumed with and how a healthy amount of sleep is a rare privilege.

== Social Structures and Community ==
Merit-based social classes. Every month, the Celestial Coucil (Convocation running Eden) release the Eden Enterprise, which is a planet-wide task the entirety of the Aurelians undertake. At 3.5 weeks, the task must be completed, giving enough time for the next Enterprise to be released. Progress towards the Enterprise is tracked by family names, and reputation points are allocated towards all who contribute. And subsequently taken from those who don’t perform adequately.

* Asteruleus: Nobles. Most families have at least one Celestial seat, but those who don’t are typically diplomats/emissaries for Eden. The vast majority of Asterlues are incredibly wealthy.
* Kathebrum: Priestly class. Kathebrum often commune with machines should they begin acting up while others act as investigators/secret police, rooting out chaos magic wherever it crops up.
* Mechinos: Mechanics/programmers. Many wind up working on the systems/machinery that keeps Eden operational, as well as the creation of ‘sentient’ AI.
* Skoredem: Engineers/architects. Skoredem are responsible for constructing/repairing Eden itself, whether it’s an aquatic filter or the foundation for a spire. Deaths aren’t infrequent, but given that they’re working on the planet, it is viewed as Eden itself ordaining their death.
* Syntrubeus: Unskilled hard laborers. Syntrubeus mainly work in the more undesirable fields, such as sewage collection, garbage disposal, and animal upkeep. Many often die in grisly accidents, but their frequent deaths stalls the rapidly approaching overpopulation problem.

Major cities/locations shift every year with the Great Reconstruction, where the planet breaks apart buildings into spaceships and rearranges them based on areas that are lacking in resources/manpower. This often affects Syntubeus/Skoredem/Mechinos districts the most as they’re the working classes, while blue districts are often kept together and only slightly rearranged to make space. White districts are moved where there is magical activity to quell the terror. Buildings of lower classes are more blocky/sharp, built to fit in spaces as efficiently as possible Upper-class buildings are more round, fanciful, and detailed. These buildings have much more thought/effort put into them, symbolizing the amount of effort the families residing in them have contributed to the Eden Enterprises. Many resemble aquatic animals.

== Religion and Spirituality ==
Aurelians largely disregard the Nullstar and, in fact, quell any worship of it. Magic is something that is unpredictable and chaotic, which will not be tolerated in Eden. Instead, the vast majority of Aurelians abide by the Binary of machines, the belief that the steel and circuits themselves are alive regardless of whether or not a machine has been programmed with the ability to think.

The priestly class (Kathebrum) are often skilled in technomancy and can ‘speak’ to machines using it to coerce them to work more efficiently

== Technology and Science ==
Aurelian science is mainly geared towards engineering, mechanics, and computer science

* Computers are flavored to be akin to holographic projections powered by magical components.
* Lapis Lazuli is generally frowned upon in machines as it is a potent reagent for chaos magic, but is still used in niche scenarios.
* Many machines have circuits made of dead Aurelians, specifically their nerves. Service to Eden never stops, even in death. Aurelians who die are tasked with the greatest mission of all: keeping machines pure of the taint of AI.

A lot of Aurelians are well-versed in astronomy as well. Star charts as well as the monitoring of stellar bodies is important for the continued survival of Eden.

* Given that Eden is an artificial planet, any anomalies in the current star it is orbiting can have detrimental effects without the natural processes a regular planet has. Knowledge of stellar bodies allows the Aurelians to prepare for incoming solar storms or incoming asteroids/comets
* Star charts are used for many reasons: trade, emissary work, and the inevitable expansion of the Aurelians. However, it is most importantly used to map a potential course Eden could take to relocate if its current star grows too volatile.

Any knowledge/pursuit of creating a fully sentient, self-thinking AI or of the understanding of magic is forbidden. There are a few exceptions to this:

* If the pursuit of magic is specifically for technomancy, learning more about it is permitted. The same goes for any pursuits dedicated to defend/counter/nullify the ‘heretical’ magic of other species, most notably those of planet Virelune.
* There are underground factions/rebels that seek to find a magical solution to the growing problem of overpopulation. These rebels live mostly in hiding and keep their magical prowess unknown. Discovery means at best reeducation, and at worst death.

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==
Aurelians wear formal or work clothing when outside, they have the perspective that you should always be ready to serve. Depending on an Aurelian’s social class, they wear certain colors: red is lowest, then goes to orange, yellow, white, and finally blue. The amount of ornaments and details increases as the hierarchy advances, people in the lower levels don’t have the ''time'' to take off all these unnecessary trinkets, but most will have at least one with some level of sentimental value that they don’t take off.

High quality and effective clothing for work is something that this society will not let up on, so even the lowest of the low have a patterned compression shirt that shows the pride of their district while looking acceptable. The reason for this is because before the district system/their planet came into place, and before there was even a “higher class” everyone had to know how to do these things. Even if you were in your fanciest ballgown, if the thrusters of the ship broke down you ''needed'' to be able to fix it if you were the closest one there.

Lower classes wear clothes more akin to TECHWEAR, outfits that share similarities with spacesuits. Most of the lower class works near machines that run very hot for long periods of time, TECHWEAR balances temperature for the workers.

== Occupations ==
Occupations amongst the Aurelians differs depending on your class level and physiology.

* Asteruleus/Asters (Blue Class)
** Diplomats and ambassadors, kinda only taught the basics of actually working with their hands in tech and more invested, often known as better at communicating than the rest of the sections. They work more on trade and communication, and are well worded.
* Kathebrum (White Class)
** Priests and investigators. These jobs are a lot more faith-based and distrustful of others’ magic, using their communion magic to hunt down dissent in Eden
* Mechinos (Yellow Class)
** Programmers, anything involving robotics, AI, computers, etc. While uncommon, those of Mechinos will sometimes lend their skills to engineering.
* Skoredem (Orange Class)
** Engineers, mostly working with heavy machinery. While those of Mechinos will sometimes lend themselves to Skoredem, the opposite is not true.
* Syntrubeus (Red Class)
** Mostly, Syntrubeus workers are unskilled and usually fit into jobs that are dependent on their physiology.

== Starships and Space Travel ==
Ships are generally based off of aquatic animals, as they’re viewed in a sacred light for the Aurelians.

* Stingray/Manta Rays: typically act as corvettes/personal ships for 1-4 people. Generally used for travel.
* Whales: typically are carriers and very large. These carriers can be used for cargo or other ships.
* Squid/Jellyfish: typically are mining/maintenance vessels, where multiple extensions of the ship can be used for multiple tasks at once.
* Sharks: typically battleships/warships. The exact battle strategy of the ship changes based on design. For example, a hammerhead ship could be used for ramming while a great white ship would be a battleship.

Currently they travel exclusively for trade and resource gathering, going to all sorts of planets and trying to investigate the food and resources there.

Intraplanetary travel is mostly trains; created by Skoredem, programmed by Mechinos, managed by Androids. Higher-class train stations look fancier and lower-class stations are less maintained overall. Trains are connected via tubes to the main planet for easy transport of Aurelians, tubes collapse when planet shifts happen. Trains and train tracks orbit the planet loosely.

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==
Daily life is entirely based on the section you live in, but the most common trait between them all is near-constant work with calculated amounts of rest.

Asteruleus/Asters (Blue):

* Young Asters live a very calm life, full of an active education specified into their interests, these are highly specified.
* They become highly knowledgeable on their specific subject and usually become high ranking members of their field.
* Magic is more based on convenience than necessity, like making a coffee machine start if it’s a bit janky. Less of an everyday life thing compared to others
* They are normally considered leaders due to their status.
* Their food has more time into it but still prepared and made fairly fast.

Kathebrum (White):

* Normally go into churchwork/cathedrals, “psychologists”, educators, Investigation/high level police work.
* Daily life spent normally communicating with people for work and can technically be considered “social”

== Notable Locations ==

=== The Eden Core ===
The Eden Core is the original Eden ship that the Eden Construct expanded from. Only the most high-ranking Aurelians are allowed to even lay eyes upon the structure. Within the ancient walls of the ship is a sprawling expanse of wires, monitors, and devices dedicated to keeping 5 Aurelians immortal. These Aurelians were the first members of the Celestial Council and, as they’re still alive, have final say on every decision of Eden’s government.

=== Celestial Hall ===
The Celestial Hall is a squat, rounded building that glimmers with opulence and formality. This is the main government facility of Eden where the Celestial Council meets to discuss plans for Eden’s future.

=== Underhome ===
The Underhome is the inner part of the planet. Most of the Asteruleus class lives down here, but some Mechinos also work and live in temporary lodging here for government projects. The Underhome is almost like a second planet, with this side being organized into strict, uniformed grids. Unlike the surface, the Underhome does not undergo a yearly reconstruction.

== Interactions With Other Species ==
The interactions with other species varies from class to class, with differing opinions separating each class even further.

* Asteruleus/Asters (Blue Class):
** Garner the most resentment from other species. Asteruleus are typically the ones staffing embassies

* Kathebrum (White Class):
**

* Mechinos (Yellow Class):
**
* Skoredem (Orange Class):
**
* Syntrubeus (Red Class):
**Known to be the most lax generally due to their consistent interaction with other species due to their jobs.

== Concept Art ==
[[File:Aurelian Concept One.png|left|thumb|Concept art for Aurelians. Artist: Kay (@day_kay)]]
[[File:Aurelian Concept Two.png|left|thumb|Concept art for Aurelians. Artist: Xavier (@drathah)]]
[[Category:Species]]

The Eden Construct

2026-05-29T15:33:43Z

MathNerd314: Added Eden Construct image to the upper table

{{UnderConstruction}}
{{RelatedPages|
* [[The Aurelium Exculta]]
* [[Androids]]
}}

{{Homeworld
| name = The Eden Construct
| image = EdenConstruct.png

| type = Planet (Artificial)
| species = The Aurelium Exculta, Androids

| moons = Unknown
| rings = Several (railways)
| system = The Echofield System

| environments = Unknown
| features = An artificial construct created by the Aurelium Exculta
}}

<blockquote>
''"Optional quote or phrase tied to the planet" — Somebody''
</blockquote>

'''The Eden Construct''' is more than a steel planet. It is a living, breathing machine that every '''[[Aurelian]]''' works to support. Nothing is permanent in Eden: the yearly Great Reconstruction allows its modular cities to rearrange, sometimes in completely different locations, to support Eden’s maintenance. Massive railways orbit the entire planet like rings, providing transportation around the constantly shifting planet. Its massive artificial trenches house the only flora and fauna on Eden, which is heavily monitored by the government to ensure their survival. Beneath the surface of the planet is the Underhome, the hollow interior of Eden that is reserved for only the highest-ranking Aurelians. With no proper oceans, Eden experiences no natural weather cycle. However, machines attached to the trains continuously cool evaporating water, allowing an atmosphere to exist. Though it stands as one of the greatest achievements of the Aurelium Exculta, Eden is not without its flaws. It is finite, controlled, and increasingly strained by the demands of its growing population.

== Geography and Environment ==

What's it like here, physically?

Include biomes, terrain types, climate, and anything unusual.

== Stellar Information ==

This includes information about the homeworld on a cosmic scale. Its moons, the number of rings it has (if any), the star system it is in, et cetera.

== Notable Historical Events ==

If any.

[[Category:Homeworlds]]

Abyssal

2026-05-28T17:24:16Z

MathNerd314: Added quote up top

{{Species
| name = Abyssal
| image = AbyssalConcept1.png

| homeworld = Pelagia
| habitats = The abyssal (ha, get it) depths of Noct Stratum
| traits = Sharp teeth, several sensory organs, elongated/digitigrade limbs, tails, bioluminescent patterns, deep-sea creature appearance
| writers = Cristi, Arc
}}

<blockquote>
''"Let the darkness flow around you. Only by knowing nothing can you truly begin to understand." — Unknown individual, likely a devotee of the Stranger''
</blockquote>

The Abyssal are a mysterious species that lurk in the depths of Noct Stratum on [[Pelagia]]. Their appearances are similar to those of deep sea creatures (resembling things like sea slugs and larger predators), with common traits including bioluminescent patterning and toothy, jagged smiles. Typically more solitary beings, they tend to float around and mind their own business, relishing the vast unknown around them and often disliking when their business is intruded upon. Owing to exceptional neural adaptability, most Abyssal have an innate ability for mimicry and a near-photographic memory, making them ideal behind-the-scenes operatives, keepers of information, and grunt workers, though many delve into countless other fields which they find interest in, often leaning into their attachment to the magical and occult. Though they share many fundamental similarities with the Thalassans in [[Pelagia]]'s upper layers, the differences between the two are the source of notable tension. As a result, the Abyssal lead a somewhat marginalized existence, often forced into the shadows when outside the depths, which act as one of the few places where they can exist comfortably.

== History ==

The Abyssal have existed for almost as long as the Thalassans have, though they haven’t always existed together. During the planet’s foundational days, only the Lucent Stratum and Twilight Stratum sectors existed, as going any lower was deemed dangerous to life. Most lived closer to the surface, but those who lived towards the bottom of Twilight Stratum (and closer to what would later become Noct Stratum), began evolving and adapting to their environment over the years. They began to adapt to the darkness, gaining more features that deep sea animals would have, and appearing akin to predators–noticeably different than common Thalassans, but not different enough to call for separation.

As more time passed and differences became more noticeable, their senses were becoming less adapted to the surface, and some Thalassans began to treat them differently, and slowly began to be cast aside from society. Driven by the desire to belong, many of these Not-Thalassans began to delve deeper instead, in order to properly sustain themselves and exist in a comfortable environment. This dive was also encouraged by the discovery of [[Pelagia]]’s radioactive core, which many Abyssal were curious to discover. Once Noct Stratum was established as a sector and the first cities and towns were built is when the separation began. Their traits began to evolve and change due to pressure changes and long-term exposure to radiation, and after years of existing in the depths they were different enough to be another species. This is when the distinction between a Thalassan and an Abyssal was created.

It’s important to note that the separation between Thalassans and Abyssal was not because of their marginalization. The Thalassans valued technological evolution and expansion, while the Abyssal valued discovery and expression of self. The Thalassans wanted order, while the Abyssal desired to free themselves from those confines of order. This conflict in views is what drove the rift between the two species, and the physiological evolution of the Abyssal is what drove to the eventual separation between the two. Most Abyssal never cared for opinions of the Thalassans, and simply fled to Noct Stratum for their own comfort and safety, and because they didn’t agree with the Thalassan lifestyle. It’s less of a case of oppressor and victim, and more a case of inevitable cultural separation.

== Core Worldview ==

The Abyssal are driven by a curiosity for the mysterious and unknown, finding solace in things that aren’t easily understood and considered complex. Each Abyssal believes in their own philosophy and ideas, always pursuing the things that interest them with unwavering determination.

They aren’t notably judgemental towards each other but they are adverse to Thalassans, often avoiding them, either out of fear of being mistreated or out of distaste for their order. They lean towards discovery more than conformity (order vs. chaos), which is a rift in connections between the two species.

They often are adverse to being studied and perceived, derived from their obsession with the unknown. This contributes to their mysterious nature, as many do not wish to be studied and categorized.

One of their core traits is their adaptability, which extends to social circles. They are quick to take up worldviews that interest or intrigue them, contributing to their varying and unknown nature. They’re known to travel to many Spheres outside of Pelagia, seeking more discoveries and knowledge, and often don the appearances and worldviews of these communities.

== Physiology and Design ==

The Abyssal tend to have appearances similar to that of deep sea creatures, most commonly sea slugs. They are tall and relatively humanoid in appearance, with some elongated/digitigrade limbs that give them a strange shape. Features can include some of the following:
[[File:AbyssalConcept2.png|thumb|261x261px|An example of an Abyssal with a lighter coloration]]
* Slimy skin that tends to be dark colors, but can vary greatly in color. Could range from pitch black to neon colors
* No hair, but can have bits of skin/sensory organs that appear like hair
* Cold blooded, slow heart beat, fast metabolism (with a very varied diet)
* Small degree of resistance to radioactivity
* Light skeletal system that is more like cartilage at times, which allows them to squeeze through some places a bit more
* Digitigrade legs, elongated arms, two pairs of arms
* Sharp teeth. Several rows of teeth at times, and long/forked tongues
* Gills on places like neck and/or ribcage
* Some have eyes that are either almost impossible to see or big beacons of light (like anglerfish)
* Several sensory organs (rhinophores, cerata, ears, etc.). They rarely have ocular structures, but those that do can exhibit several eyes with incredibly limited vision
* Their main methods of perception rely on electromagnetic waves, echolocation, seismic sensing, auditory cues, tactile sensing etc. Can be a combination of multiple. Commonly sensitive to very bright light
* Tail, or tails for movement. Jellyfish-like tentacles as well
* Fins/frills along their limbs/back/anywhere else to aid with underwater movement, webbed fingers as well
* Bioluminescent patterns anywhere along their body, brightness of these patterns fluctuates based on emotion or could just be manually adjusted
* Incredible neuroplasticity, granting abilities with mimicry and near-photographic memory
* No actual sleep, instead they have rest periods of a few hours several times during the day
* They live long and extensive lives, x2-x5 longer than the average human 
== Social Structures and Community ==

The Abyssal tend to be solitary, associating with very small groups at best. They’re scattered all over Noct Stratum, often not having any defined cities or towns. The few cities that exist are closer to the surface, in which some Thalassans reside and are often the ones who govern these cities, and Abyssal are not as free here as they are on their own or in other places.
[[File:AbyssalDwellingConcept1.png|thumb|An example of what a small Abyssal Dwelling may look like.]]
Familial ties are not as maintained as they are in other cultures. When children are born, they are given a temporary name based on an object or virtue important to the parents, and are raised to be independent and self-reliant. Once the children are old and mature enough to maintain themselves and explore the world on their own, they choose their own names, sometimes sticking to the same naming scheme of objects or virtues, or simply choosing a standard name. As such, there are rarely blood-related families living together.

Though they lean towards solitude, the Abyssal who meet and connect hold incredibly strong bonds, and are rather loyal to each other. It isn’t uncommon to find groups of 2-3 Abyssal living together.

The lack of cities and towns combined with the high pressure of the depths makes construction and building maintenance more difficult. As such, most Abyssal that don’t live within the cities closer to the surface tend to make their homes carved into walls; often, it’s unclear at what point the building begins. These homes are decorated with trinkets of things that interest them and bioluminescent plants.

== Religion and Spirituality ==

Most Abyssal have no religious beliefs, often finding it difficult to understand a higher being able to grant them knowledge and answers. They do not believe in artificial gods, nor do they believe the Nullstar to be worthy of faith as it’s portrayed by the cosmos.

In quiet corners of Noct Stratum, however, some begin to worship a figure commonly referred to as “The Stranger”, an artificial deity whose identity and specifics are unknown. Some relate The Stranger to [[Pelagia]]’s core, others deem it is a completely separate being. The focus is not on providing answers, but rather finding solace and comfort in the unknown. This structureless, nameless cult is sparse between the Abyssal, worship often being individual, but those who believe in this have an unwavering devotion to The Stranger.

In terms of spirituality, the Abyssal find a great importance in their patterns and bioluminescence. Being the only form of colored light that they can “see” without their senses being overwhelmed, they decorate their homes with glowing plants, paint the walls and roofs of their homes with bioluminescent paint, and show off their patterns as a form of self-expression and freedom. In the deep of the abyss, they greatly value the color and vibrance that bioluminescence brings to their lives. These patterns and colors present themselves in the magic that they use and rituals they participate in. Followers of The Stranger do not follow these practices, and instead cover up their patterns and live in complete darkness.

Another common practice is carving and sculpting statues and monuments of their occupations or practices from stone and similar materials using highly pressurized jets of water magic. Not only is it a way to refine their magical skills, but it’s also a form of worship to their craft and devotion to their practices. These statues serve both as a decoration for their homes and an object for their magic and rituals.

== Technology and Science ==

Though most Abyssal are more inclined towards magic, they can also be knowledgeable and skilled engineers. Most machinery they employ are things that would make their jobs easier, such as drills and cranes. Most machinery tends to be closer to the upper layers of Noct Stratum, as the pressure deeper down makes it difficult for machines to operate and maintain. Machinery closer to the core are more commonly power generators, providing hydraulic power, thermal energy, and some small nuclear plants that draw energy from [[Pelagia]]’s core.

Most of their scientific advancements are towards nuclear sciences. The goal is to understand the intricacies of the core, harness them safely, and use them for the betterment of Thalassan technology. These developments have been difficult to achieve, however, as the core’s high levels of radiation are difficult to create protections against, and getting closer to the core has proven to be difficult. Outside of the nuclear circle, scientists often study the plant life in Noct Stratum, which has been used for medicinal advancements and material applications.

Another field of science that’s largely explored is thermodynamics. There are countless thermal vents, geysers, and inactive underwater volcanoes used as one of the main methods of power generation in Noct Stratum and Twilight Stratum. Thermodynamics also play a large part in Abyssal magic systems, and as such, many seek a better understanding of its nature in order to combine magic and technology (a very common pursuit amongst Abyssal).

== Traditional Clothing and Fashion ==

Those that live in the cities and travel to Twilight and Lucent Stratum, tend to cover themselves with clothing that obscures their figure and features. Cloaks, robes, masks, and several layers of clothing in dark colors are the common clothes worn by those who wish to obscure their identities.

Those who work closer to the core cover themselves often, and have some layers of radioactivity protection, either donning the clothes that they wear to the surface, or specialized uniforms for the places which they work in. Lightly armored uniforms with masks, gloves, and boots are commonly seen. Those who hold occupations further from the core often wear jumpsuits, tool belts, and other less heavy protective gear.

Many others find pride in their patterns and wear light, revealing clothing that shows these off. Things like open-back or open-front shirts, translucent clothing, mesh clothing, and other clothes that show what’s under them. These clothes come in bright colorations, used as an expression of the self. People who wear these kinds of clothes think poorly of those who cover their patterns with heavy clothing and uniforms.

It’s also rather common for Abyssal who move to other Spheres to adopt clothing from those cultures.

== Occupations ==

Most Abyssal stick to occupations within Noct Stratum, very rarely taking jobs in any higher sectors. Typically used to grunt work due to them being adapted to the depths, thus being able to work more efficiently. Construction and engineering work are two main occupations taken. They handle the maintenance of power generators and other similar structures, as well as ensuring no significant structural damage due to pressure happens.

Another common job is those related to [[Pelagia]]’s core. Abyssal are often sent to survey the core and perform maintenance on the small nuclear plants due to their slight resistance to radioactivity. Despite this, these jobs still have high casualty rates and are avoided, though most have no choice but to do so regardless.

Those that take jobs in Twilight or Lucent Stratum often land positions in archival roles, serving as information gatherers and keepers due to their excellent memory. Other roles include covert operations and intelligence gathering, despite the Thalassans’ mistrust and aversion towards the Abyssal.

== Starships and Space Travel ==

Their space travel is entirely based on Thalassan space travel, as they have no access to these space ports on Noct Stratum. Their starships take the appearance of sea life and sailboats, and vary greatly in shapes and sizes. The Abyssal often don’t own large ships, and instead stick to smaller, personal ships and shuttles. The ships they utilize are commonly hybrid starships, used for travel both within and outside of [[Pelagia]].

Those that leave [[Pelagia]] and integrate themselves into other societies keep their starships despite their cultural changes. Maintenance of their ships can be difficult depending on the location, so it’s common for Abyssal to replace some parts of their ships with easier to find parts and materials, leading to unique appearances of the same starship model.

== Cultural Quirks and Daily Life ==

The spoken language that they use to communicate is a combination of mainly clicks and growls, akin to echolocation. They can also communicate using their bioluminescence, applying a form of morse code and varying brightness levels to communicate.

The younger Abyssal often play a game where they delve deep into Noct Stratum, often near the Hadal Zones, and whoever can last the longest without getting strong waves of radiation sickness wins the game. This is often looked down upon by the older Abyssal, since it’s seen as reckless and dangerous.

The reason why they can’t see other forms of light well but can see bioluminescent light is because light powered by electricity emits a buzz that intervenes with their senses, but bioluminescence is a natural form of light and thus doesn’t emit the same buzzing that other forms of light do. This is why they prefer darker environments illuminated with bioluminescence over brightly lit places.

Abyssal “vision” appears like a faint white veil covering the objects they perceive, more of a texture vision than color vision, the only color that they can see being that of bioluminescent light. For those with no ocular organs, their method of perception fully relies on auditory cues, echolocation, and tremorsense.

Since electrical light interferes with their senses, they can’t look at screens for prolonged periods of time. As such, most have a specialized device that filters out the light of the screen that they point it at, and condenses what’s displayed into the screen into a textured surface that they can see without any problems. This is slightly inconvenient, so most prefer to stick to physical writing when possible or reducing screen usage as much as possible.

Despite their sharp rows of teeth and predator-like appearance, Abyssal are omnivorous and their diet can vary greatly. This includes some Abyssal insane enough to digest small amounts of radioactive material. Consequences are rather obvious in cases like these, though with quick enough treatment, rarely ever results in death or long-term damage.

== Notable Locations ==

=== Aphokia ===
The largest and only of two cities in Noct Stratum. Ran mainly by Thalassan officials, the city is a district for research and engineering. It’s the closest city to Twilight Stratum, and as such, its architecture is most similar to that upper sector: large, modernized, dark buildings with high security and apartment complexes for the workers living there, and a lack of color and greenery. It’s commonly used as a middle ground for travel between the upper levels and the Research Sites in the Hadal Zones of Noct Stratum. There are more Abyssal living there than Thalassans, but the few Thalassans are of high authority, and tend to treat the Abyssal as lesser, mere workers. The disconnect between the two species is incredibly prominent and noticeable here, and most Abyssal don’t bother interacting with the Thalassans outside of work. All Abyssal who live here cover up their patterns, and live there solely out of necessity for work and payment.

=== Kataphos ===
The other of the two cities in Noct Stratum, and smaller than Aphokia. It was founded by the Abyssal who were fine with living together in larger communities, and it sports drastically different architecture than that of Aphokia. Its location deeper within Noct Stratum makes it so that Thalassans can’t live there for prolonged periods of time, thus making it an Abyssal-only city. While architecture is still modernized, it leans more towards the natural state of the depths they live in, with smaller buildings of stone that look partially carved into the walls and floor that surrounds them. It’s decorated with many bioluminescent plants and colors, making it far more vibrant than its Thalassan counterpart. Kataphos has more areas for agriculture, merchandising, and residential living, making it more of a hub for trade than Aphokia.

=== Hadal Nuclear Research Sites ===
In the deepest trenches of Noct Stratum, in those areas called Hadal Zones, there are several nuclear research sites established by the Thalassan government in an attempt to better study and understand [[Pelagia]]’s core. Due to the core’s very radioactive nature and the high pressure of the atmosphere, only Abyssal are authorized to go down to these sites. Once again, the architecture of these buildings is akin to that of high-security Twilight Stratum buildings, with large layers of protection and several ports for vehicle entry and exit. Due to the radioactive environment, Abyssal are completely forbidden from entering the Hadal Zones without heavy-duty protective gear, and even more so forbidden from exiting the research sites for any reason. Travel between research sites and out to do maintenance is allowed only through the use of specialized crawler vehicles, modeled to look like crustacean species. Equipped with legs that adapt to the jagged terrain and claws to easily conduct maintenance and resource collection.

== Interactions With Other Species ==

Interactions between Thalassans and Abyssal tend to be strictly work and business related, as the two species’ ideologies rarely ever line up, and most interactions end in more conflict and fighting. The Abyssal are workers to the Thalassans, and nothing more than that. Most Abyssal see the Thalassans as pretentious with their head in the clouds. Conflict is not actively sought out–more often than not, Abyssal try to be more understanding of Thalassans and their points of view, but the contrasting beliefs and ideologies lead to poor connections between the two species.

As stated in the [[Abyssal#History|History]] section, the separation between Thalassans and Abyssal was not because of their marginalization. The Thalassans valued technological evolution and expansion, while the Abyssal valued discovery and expression of self. The Thalassans wanted order, while the Abyssal desired to free themselves from those confines of order. This conflict in views is what drove the rift between the two species, and the physiological evolution of the Abyssal is what drove to the eventual separation between the two. Most Abyssal never cared for opinions of the Thalassans, and simply fled to Noct Stratum for their own comfort and safety, and because they didn’t agree with the Thalassan lifestyle. It’s less of a case of oppressor and victim, and more a case of inevitable cultural separation.

== Inspiration Images ==

Besides the images shown here, there are also boards for [https://pin.it/4kkGPCaPM clothing references], [https://pin.it/1rfkpBwrs location references], and [https://pin.it/2Qe2WLMoh spaceship references].<gallery>
File:AbyssalVision.png|An example of how Abyssal "vison" works.
File:HadalZoneCrawler.jpg|An example of the crawlers used in the Hadal Nuclear Research Sites.
File:AbyssalScreenDevice.png|An example of the devices used by the Abyssal to see screens.
</gallery>

== Concept Art ==
<gallery>
File:AbyssalConcept1.png|alt=
File:AbyssalConcept2.png
File:AbyssalConcept3.png
File:DeimosBack.png
File:AbyssalDwellingConcept1.png
File:AbyssalArchitectureConcept1.jpg
File:AbyssalArchitectureConcept2.jpg
</gallery>

== Playlist + Theme Song ==
[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kzVUtKTU4RTCShoGmO6jdMCcA41vLwoj/view?usp=sharing Abyssal theme song], made by Garyth (the goat !!)

<spotify>playlist/6efy1cWOAlWGG1LF4q5Pts?si</spotify>

[[Category:Species]]