Fauna, Companions & Familiars
15.1 Companion Creatures
| Creature | Description |
|---|---|
| Tidal Whales | Massive, intelligent creatures that the Nereids often communicate with. They serve as messengers, companions, and sources of ancient wisdom. Communing with the whales is a sacred practice associated with the god Cetus. |
| Tidal Dolphins | Swift, playful creatures trained as mounts by the Current Riders division of the Coral Guard. Loyal and intelligent, they form lifelong bonds with their riders. |
| Reef Guardians | Large, armored sea creatures resembling crustaceans that patrol coral city perimeters. Semi-domesticated and responsive to Nereid sonic commands. |
| Luminous Jellyfish | Cultivated for their bioluminescent properties, these creatures are used for lighting, artistic displays, and ceremonial decoration. Different species produce different colors. |
| Seavine Serpents | Serpentine creatures that tend kelp gardens, eating parasites and pests that threaten the crops. Considered good luck and welcomed by farmers. |
| Deep-Sea Leviathans | Rarely seen massive creatures of the abyssal depths. Revered rather than domesticated, their appearance is considered an omen from Abyssus. |
| Coral Sprites | Tiny, colorful creatures that live in symbiosis with coral reefs. Nereids consider them indicators of reef health; a thriving sprite population signals a healthy ecosystem. |
15.2 Wild Fauna
The waters of Nereidum host an extraordinary diversity of wild species, including Prismatic Mantas, Ironshell Crabs, Song-Eels, Lanternfish Swarms, Deepmaw Anglers, and Pearlback Turtles (see Section 4.7 for detailed descriptions). The relationship between Nereids and wild fauna is governed by the Steward's Code: wild creatures are respected as fellow inhabitants of the ocean, never hunted for sport, and harvested only within sustainable limits set by the Ministry of Ocean Harmony.
15.3 Domestication Practices
Nereid domestication is based on partnership rather than subjugation. Tidal Dolphins and Reef Guardians are raised from young with their Nereid companions, forming bonds through shared experience and sonic communication rather than coercion. The Guild of the Current maintains breeding programs for Tidal Dolphins, carefully matching individuals to maximize health and temperament. Seavine Serpents are attracted to kelp farms through offerings of food and shelter, establishing a mutualistic relationship that benefits both species.