The Pela - The Sea People

Ocean Pela

Apex predators of the deep, Ocean Pelas are sleek, powerful, and often misunderstood. They are the most physically shark-like—fins, gills, webbing, and thick, bulky tails suited for fast, precise movement in deep waters. Often seen as “animalistic” by outsiders, they are in fact tactical and deeply intelligent, operating with a complex social logic. Though peaceful by nature, their reputation as dangerous comes from their unmatched hunting ability and unsettling presence.

• Core traits: Predatory grace, intense intellect, stoic behavior

• Appearance: Fins, full gills, thick tails, bioluminescent elements

• Personality: Private, strategic, emotionally deep but rarely expressive

 Land Pela

Descended from Ocean Pelas who adapted to life among humans, Land Pelas are the most assimilated. They resemble humans closely—lungs instead of gills, minimal webbing—but still retain aquatic features like tails and dermal patterns (spots, stripes, ridges). Known for their philosophical minds and technological advancement, they’ve integrated into society through resilience and intellect. Though often discriminated against in the past, they now hold unique spaces in modern communities.

• Core traits: Socially aware, refined thinkers, resilient

• Appearance: Largely human-shaped with smaller tails, subtle markings, water-adapted skin

• Personality: Calm, adaptive, outwardly rational with deep-rooted instincts

Freshwater Pela

Playful, tricky, and deeply attached once bonded, Freshwater Pelas dwell in rivers, lakes, and marshes. Their biology is mixed—some have gills, some lungs, or both. They are lighter in build but still have strong, bulky tails and animal markings. While they act whimsical and carefree, they’re clever and emotionally intense underneath it all. They rarely form long-term ties, but when they do, the bond is unshakable. Freshies don’t fully understand human ideas of relationships and often express care through physical closeness and pranks.

• Core traits: Clever, unpredictable, loyal to a fault

• Appearance: Varies widely—spotted or striped skin, partial gills, agile tails, often with slicker tails

• Personality: Mischievous, fiercely affectionate, emotionally evasive but genuine