Selachian

The Selachians are a race of humanoid sharks dwelling in the deep, enigmatic oceans of their homeworld. These beings are a fusion of the powerful, predatory nature of sharks and the intelligence and adaptability of humanoids. Their society, hidden beneath the waves in grand underwater cities, is as complex and intricate as the ocean itself.

Biology & Race

General Appearance:

• Selachians possess sleek, muscular bodies that are built for speed and agility in the water. Their skin is covered in iridescent scales that shimmer in various hues of blue, silver, and violet, providing both camouflage and a mesmerizing display in the deep ocean.
• Head and Facial Features: Their heads are a blend of shark and human characteristics. They have elongated snouts, sharp, predatory jaws filled with rows of razor-sharp teeth, and piercing eyes that gleam with intelligence. Their gills are located on the sides of their necks, allowing them to breathe underwater, while their nostrils are placed higher on their snouts, aiding in scent detection.
• Limbs: Selachians have strong, webbed hands and feet that enable them to navigate the ocean currents with ease. Their fingers are tipped with claws that can be retracted when not in use, and their feet are designed for both swimming and walking on the ocean floor.
• Tail: A powerful tail extends from their lower back, aiding in propulsion and balance in the water. The tail is flexible and muscular, capable of delivering powerful blows in combat.

Sub-Species:

1. Selachiim (Apex Predators):
   • Appearance: The Selachiim are more robust and darker in coloration compared to their Selimic cousins. Their scales are typically darker shades of blue, black, or deep gray, which allows them to blend into the abyssal depths where they often reside.
   • Traits: Selachiim are highly territorial and are considered the apex predators among the Mer species. They are larger and more aggressive, often leading their tribes and schools in both hunting and warfare. Their jaws are particularly powerful, capable of crushing even the toughest shells and armor.
   • Behavior: Selachiim are known for their fierce independence and strength. They often live in smaller, more isolated communities, but when they do gather in larger numbers, they can form formidable raiding parties. Historical records note several incidents of Selachiim raiding parties clashing with surface-dwelling civilizations, such as the Vikings of the north.
2. Selimic (Human-Shark Hybrids):
   • Appearance: The Selimic retain more human-like features compared to the Selachiim. They have a more balanced blend of human and shark traits, with a more upright posture and slightly softer features. Their scales are lighter in color, often in shades of silver, pale blue, or sea-green.
   • Traits: The Selimic were the first human-shark hybrids and are capable of breeding with both original parent species. This adaptability has allowed them to integrate more easily into both human and Mer societies. They are less aggressive than the Selachiim and are often found living in isolated communities or within human societies where they contribute as hunters, traders, or warriors.
   • Behavior: Selimic are generally more social and less territorial than their Selachiim cousins. They value community and cooperation, often forming close-knit groups that work together to protect their homes and families.
3. Thanati (Deep Sea Predators):
   • Appearance: The Thanati are a more monstrous variant of the Selachians, with a distinctly alien appearance. They have eight eyes arranged in two rows along their elongated heads, providing them with exceptional vision in the dark depths of the ocean. Their jaws are equipped with mandibles that can snap shut with incredible force, and their bodies are adorned with eight legs that rest along their sides when swimming.
   • Traits: Thanati are adapted to the deepest parts of the ocean, where light barely penetrates. Their eight legs allow them to crawl along the ocean floor or cling to rocky outcrops, while their mandibles are used to crush prey. They are solitary creatures, often acting as ambush predators, lurking in the shadows of the deep sea.
   • Behavior: Thanati are the most reclusive of the Selachian sub-species. They prefer the isolation of the deep ocean and are rarely seen by other beings. When they do emerge, it is often to hunt or defend their territory from intruders.

Culture

Underwater Cities:

• Selachian cities are marvels of marine architecture, built from coral, shells, and other natural materials. These cities are hidden deep within the ocean, often in areas that are difficult for surface dwellers to reach. The buildings are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting the history and mythology of the Selachians.
• Social Structure: Selachian society is highly structured, with a strong emphasis on community and tradition. Each city is governed by a council of elders, who are chosen for their wisdom, bravery, and leadership. These elders make decisions regarding the welfare of the city, trade, and relations with other civilizations.
• Art and Music: Selachians are deeply artistic, with a strong tradition of sculpture, painting, and music. Their art often reflects the beauty and danger of the ocean, with vibrant colors and flowing forms. Music is an important part of their culture, with songs and chants used in rituals, celebrations, and storytelling.

Religion and Spirituality:

• Ocean Deities: The Selachians worship a pantheon of ocean deities, each representing different aspects of the sea, such as the currents, storms, and marine life. These deities are believed to watch over the Selachians, guiding them in their daily lives and protecting them from harm.
• Rituals: Rituals are a key part of Selachian life, often performed to honor the gods, seek their favor, or mark important life events. These rituals can involve offerings, chants, dances, and even elaborate underwater processions.
• Guardian Spirits: Selachians believe in guardian spirits that dwell within the ocean, watching over their cities and guiding their people. These spirits are often depicted as large, mythical sea creatures, and are said to communicate with the elders through visions and dreams.

Hunting and Warfare:

• Skilled Hunters: Selachians are highly skilled hunters, using their natural abilities and keen senses to stalk prey through the coral reefs and ocean depths. They hunt in groups, coordinating their movements to corner and capture their targets.
• Warfare: While Selachians are generally peaceful, they are formidable warriors when provoked. Their cities are defended by well-trained militias, and they are capable of launching swift, devastating attacks on those who threaten their homes. Warfare is seen as a last resort, used only to protect their people and maintain the balance of the ocean.

History

1. Ancient Origins:

• Creation and Evolution: The Selachians are believed to have evolved from ancient sharks that developed humanoid traits over millennia. This evolution was driven by the need to adapt to the changing conditions of their deep ocean environment, leading to the development of their unique blend of shark and human characteristics.
• Early Societies: Early Selachian societies were nomadic, moving through the ocean in search of food and resources. Over time, they began to settle in areas rich in marine life, leading to the development of the first underwater cities.

2. The Age of Expansion:

• Building the Cities: As Selachian society grew more complex, they began to build larger, more permanent cities. These cities became centers of trade, culture, and learning, with each city developing its own unique traditions and customs.
• Clashes with Surface Dwellers: As the Selachians expanded their territories, they occasionally came into conflict with surface-dwelling civilizations. These clashes were often brief but intense, with the Selachians using their superior knowledge of the ocean to outmaneuver their enemies.

3. The Great Schism:

• Division Among the Selachians: Over time, differences in ideology and culture led to a split among the Selachians, resulting in the emergence of the Selachiim and Selimic sub-species. The Selachiim, with their more aggressive and territorial nature, sought to dominate the ocean, while the Selimic preferred cooperation and peaceful coexistence.
• The Thanati’s Isolation: The Thanati, with their unique adaptations to the deep sea, chose to isolate themselves from the rest of Selachian society. They withdrew to the deepest parts of the ocean, where they could live in peace, away from the conflicts of the surface and shallower waters.

4. Modern Era:

• Resilience and Adaptation: In the modern era, the Selachians continue to thrive in their underwater cities, maintaining their traditions while adapting to the challenges of a changing world. They remain wary of surface-dwellers but have established diplomatic relations with several surface nations, particularly those who respect the ocean and its inhabitants.

Trivia

1. Shark Charms: Selachians often wear small charms made from shark teeth or bones, believed to bring good luck and protection. These charms are often passed down through generations and are considered family heirlooms.
2. Telepathic Communication: Selachians are capable of limited telepathic communication, particularly when underwater. This ability allows them to communicate silently and over long distances, making it an invaluable tool in both hunting and warfare.
3. Bioluminescent Tattoos: Many Selachians have bioluminescent tattoos that glow in the dark, creating intricate patterns on their bodies. These tattoos are often used to signify rank, achievements, or affiliation with a particular clan or city.
4. Deep Sea Gardens: Selachian cities often include deep sea gardens, where they cultivate bioluminescent plants and coral. These gardens are not only a source of food and medicine but also serve as places of meditation and spiritual reflection.
5. Tales of the Leviathan: Selachian mythology includes tales of a massive sea creature known as the Leviathan, said to dwell in the deepest part of the ocean. According to legend, the Leviathan is the guardian of the ocean’s most ancient secrets, and only the bravest and most worthy Selachians can seek its wisdom.
6. Cultural Exchanges: Despite their differences, the Selachiim and Selimic occasionally engage in cultural exchanges, where young members of each sub-species spend time living with the other. These exchanges are intended to foster understanding and unity among the Selachians, though they are not without their challenges.