Merfolk statues

Merfolk are specific to the Pelagic in that they have an alternative method of reproduction. While they commonly lay eggs, some adults are born fully grown from merfolk statues.
The statues are used to convert individuals into mer or crustacean anthroids.
== History ==
The statues were originally created in order for other sentient species to join the mer. They were later made to regrow the crustaceans numbers after their war against the mer. The Merfolk enslaved the crustacean anthroids in order for them to fight their battles where they cannot, above water. The use of these statues created the boneshroud. Since the shroud only affects the surface, the mer kept using them en masse.
However, the use of the crustacean anthroids as weapons of war meant ever more boneshroud emissions, which affected the fertility of Merfolk, until they themselves had to use them to replenish their numbers. The reason for their falling numbers became their salvation.
== Mechanics ==
The statues use thalassa gems that capture the anima of the prisoner, the gem once placed on the prisoner encases it in biological plaster, and the prisoner begins its mutation into a subaqueous dweller. So far, four results from the transformation have been observed; merfolk, hermit clams, ectrics, and even ogre crabs can result from the change.
The statues must be placed rising above water, usually on beaches. A common terror tactic is for the Merfolk to hide an ogre crab statue near inhabited settlements.
The gem acts as a battery for the statue, if the statue is destroyed the gem is inert. Gems can be recovered from mer and crustacean anthroids if they are relatively young.
Usually, gemborn, as they are called, are born sterile.
Thalassa gems
Main article: Thalassa gems
Gems made by the merfolk from ocean whispers in order to create more of their number or to create their servants.
Ocean whispers
Main article: Ocean whispers
A mystical substance from which thalassa gems are made. The substance prevents anima from escaping.
Category:Mer
Category:Other race culture
Category:Other race technology