Triton

Tritons are a race of humanoid beings known for their distinct underwater adaptations and noble nature. With origins rooted in the first extinction event, they have a deep connection to the ocean and the deities they worship. Tritons possess unique physical features and exhibit a sense of pride and duty towards protecting the world from underwater threats.

### **Appearance**

Tritons display a remarkable array of underwater adaptations that set them apart from other humanoid races. Their skin commonly bears a deep-blue hue, although variants in colors such as pearl, light green, and rare mutant shades have been observed. These resilient beings have webbed hands and feet, facilitating their graceful movement through water, while minor dorsal fins extend from their mid-calf to their ankles. In terms of height, Tritons are on par with humans, standing as equals in stature.

Triton hair is typically dark blue or dark green, styled in long, flowing "manes." Men often braid their hair, allowing it to extend five inches past their shoulders, while women occasionally let their hair flow freely. Interestingly, Triton hair does not grow within two inches of the base of their pointed ears, giving the appearance of a shaved area. During combat, Tritons often bind their hair in practical styles like tight ponytails to ensure clear visibility. Additionally, they are known to weave pieces of coral or metal into their hair, providing emergency makeshift bludgeons.

The eyes of Tritons exhibit brilliant shades of green or blue, captivating observers. Under standard lighting conditions, their eyes bear a resemblance to those of humans. However, in dim lighting, their pupils expand significantly, enabling enhanced vision in the dark. This adaptation can cause their entire eyes to turn black. Furthermore, Triton eyes possess a nictitating membrane, safeguarding them from sudden changes or flashes of light. Their exceptional vision allows them to see normally at depths of up to 1,000 feet under the sea, while their impressive swimming abilities enable them to venture comfortably to depths of 3,000 feet, though they may very well proceed beyond.

### **Personality**

Tritons possess a strong sense of pride ingrained in their nature, stemming from their centuries-long dedication to protecting the world from perceived great evils lurking beneath the sea. They believe they are entitled to a certain level of fealty and respect from other races, although this acknowledgment is often lacking due to the general lack of awareness surrounding Triton culture. Isolated from the rest of the world, Tritons remain ignorant of the grand achievements and struggles of other civilizations. When made aware of such matters, they tend to consider them minor in comparison to their own ongoing mission to protect the world.

Despite their pride, Tritons are inherently noble and kind-hearted beings who genuinely value the well-being of the world and its diverse races. They are willing to sacrifice themselves, readily offering their lives to safeguard others. Deeply affected by the responsibility of cleansing the evils of the Inanisii, who threaten their world, Tritons feel an unwavering need to exterminate them from their realm.

### **Government**

Triton society operates on a system based on merit and religious importance, where both the military and the priesthood hold significant power. The priesthood assumes authority over domestic affairs, while the military ensures the survival and protection of Triton communities. Each Triton protectorate functions as a sovereign nation, independent from others, with their rule not extending beyond their respective territories. The entire Triton community remains devoted to the crusade in the depths of the Voidsea (Named Inanima by the Tritons).

Triton settlements are meticulously planned and structured, reflecting their characteristic orderliness. Protectorates begin with a central tower serving as a garrisoned outpost, surrounded by additional buildings and caverns to accommodate the population. Four additional outposts are established sixteen miles from the central tower, strategically positioned in the four cardinal directions. These outposts are further expanded in sets of four, forming a grid-like pattern that ensures each settlement remains within a half-day's journey of one another. A typical Triton protectorate consists of a capital city, encircled by eight trade cities, supported by twelve farming villages, and guarded by twenty-four outposts. These cities generally reach depths no greater than 1,250 feet below sea level.

Tritons make strategic use of hydrothermal vents for smelting metals and producing valuable weapons and armor. However, due to the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to the mineral-rich waters, Tritons limit their interactions with these vents, relying on the Merfolk who are more resistant to such disturbances.

### **History and Religion**

The Tritons, originally humans, trace their lineage back to the first extinction event. During that time, according to Triton lore, they were chosen as dedicated servants of the goddess Sier. She blessed them, saving their lives from the atrocities of the first extinction, in exchange for their commitment to becoming stewards and guardians of her realm. Tritons hold the worship of Sier in high regard, with most of their population displaying at least a moderate level of religious devotion, and some even becoming zealots. Triton settlements and protectorates boast numerous temples, with one grand temple dedicated to Sier in each location. Additionally, Tritons revere Chalus as the god of protection and war, reflecting their natural tendencies and sense of duty.

### **Culture and Society**

Triton society is built upon principles of order, discipline, and communal harmony. They value collective effort and strive for unity among their people. Tritons have a strong sense of duty and devotion, considering themselves guardians of the seas and protectors of all life beneath the waves. Their culture places great emphasis on honor, loyalty, and the pursuit of knowledge.

From an early age, Tritons are taken from their family units and raised in schools where they sleep, train, receive education, and grow together as a cohesive unit. These schools serve as the foundation of Triton society, evaluating their individual talents and assigning them appropriate roles such as warriors, scholars, teachers, caretakers, clergy, and more. Every Triton is expected to earn their keep and become a beneficial member of society. Those who fail to meet expectations face social humiliation and are heavily frowned upon, sometimes even subjected to shaming.

Regardless of their assigned roles, all Tritons are taught the art of combat and are required to serve in the military for a designated period of their lives. This ensures that every Triton possesses the necessary skills and readiness to protect their realm and fulfill their duty as unwavering guardians.

The arts hold a significant place in Triton culture, serving as a powerful medium of expression and the preservation of their history. Poems, music, and storytelling among the Tritons revolve around themes of combat, bravery, and dedication to Sier. Through their artistic creations, Tritons chronicle their heroic feats, recount ancient legends, and amplify their unwavering commitment to safeguarding their realm from the encroaching forces of darkness.

### **Architecture and City Planning**

Triton cities and settlements reflect their logical and orderly nature. Architectural designs incorporate the natural elements of the ocean, blending seamlessly with the underwater environment. Elaborate coral structures, iridescent seashell decorations, and vibrant aquatic flora adorn the cityscapes. Buildings are constructed with a combination of materials, including coral, pearl, and enchanted seastones.

Triton cities are meticulously planned, featuring a central hub surrounded by concentric rings of districts. The central hub serves as the heart of the city, housing the grand temple, government offices, and the royal palace. The outer rings include residential areas, marketplaces, artisan quarters, and specialized districts such as the war district and the training grounds.

Cleverly positioned near prominent entrances to the treacherous Voidsea, Triton cities also serve as guardians of the upper world against the monstrous Inanisii. Next to these entrances, the Tritons have built formidable underwater fortresses that stand as bulwarks against the dark forces that emerge from the depths. These underwater fortresses are a testament to Triton engineering, ingeniously designed to defend against threats from below rather than the sides, as one would expect in surface warfare.

The Triton fortresses are architectural marvels, combining reinforced coral structures, enchanted seastones, and carefully positioned defensive mechanisms. They offer a panoramic view of the surrounding underwater terrain, allowing Triton defenders to observe and respond to threats from all directions, including from below. Walls adorned with defensive runes and reinforced with enchantments create powerful barriers against the relentless assaults of the Inanisii.

In addition to their defensive capabilities, the Triton fortresses house training grounds, armories, and specialized chambers for tactical planning and strategic discussions. Interconnected underwater tunnels and secret passages form a complex network, enabling rapid deployment and strategic positioning of Triton forces. These tunnels also serve as vital supply routes, ensuring the fortresses remain well-stocked and resilient during times of conflict.

### **Trade and Commerce**

Tritons value the importance of trade and maintain thriving economic networks. Triton trade cities, strategically positioned along major underwater routes, serve as bustling hubs for commerce.

The Tritons actively foster cooperative relationships and trade agreements with various aquatic races, including the Sea Elves, Locathah, Merfolk, Kua-Toa, Shalarin, and the exotic Nereids. These alliances establish trade routes that span the vast underwater realms, facilitating the exchange of resources, knowledge, and cultural practices.

Triton merchants venture beyond their protectorates, journeying to the realms of their aquatic neighbors to conduct trade. They bring with them a wealth of Triton craftsmanship, including finely crafted weapons, armor, and enchanted artifacts. In return, they acquire unique goods and treasures from other races, such as Sea Elven mystical artifacts, Locathah handwoven tapestries, Merfolk jewelry, Kua-Toa alchemical concoctions, Shalarin navigational tools, and the enchanting creations of the exotic Nereids.

These trade networks not only bolster the Triton economy but also foster diplomacy and cultural exchange among the diverse underwater civilizations. The exchange of goods and ideas strengthens the bonds between the Tritons and the other races, promoting cooperation and mutual prosperity in the underwater world and contributes to the war efforts.

### **Military and Defense**

The Triton military stands as a formidable force, unwavering in its dedication to protect the Triton realm and wage war against the Inanisii. From a young age, Triton warriors undergo rigorous combat training, honing their skills in both aquatic and land-based warfare. Armed with tridents, harpoons, and enchanted coral blades, they are well-prepared for the challenges of underwater combat.

Triton cities boast well-fortified defensive structures, incorporating advanced magical defenses and intricate underwater fortifications. The military works closely with the priesthood, ensuring the safety and security of Triton communities. They employ skilled artificers who create innovative submarines and armors, enabling Tritons to venture deeper into the ocean depths, expanding their reach in their ongoing battle against the Inanisii in the Voidsea.

In Triton society, military service is a shared responsibility embraced by all. Both the clergy and the fighters play significant roles in defending their realm. The clergy support the military efforts by providing spiritual guidance, performing sacred rituals, and channeling their divine powers to bolster the Triton forces. Additionally, the wider Triton populace participates in military service at some point in their lives, fostering a culture of unity and shared duty among their people.

The Triton military, driven by discipline, valor, and an unwavering sense of duty, remains vigilant in repelling constant raids from the depths and safeguarding Triton territories. Their collective efforts ensure the continued existence and prosperity of the Triton civilization beneath the waves.