The Cerulean Empire
Banded together through conquest and necessity, the merfolk of the Cerulean trench were, once, disparate bands of warring tribes of hunter gatherers. They are now a highly sophisticated and venerable empire-in-decline, and their leadership knows it. The current Emperor, Azurius IV (as of this writing), is a benign and merciful leader who knows full well that the empire has mere centuries left before a dark age of merfolk descends upon his people, and is doing his level best to institute policies and infrastructure to mitigate the upcoming hardship as much as possible.
Only the trench itself is now under the control of the once expansive empire. And, vast as it is, only the most southern reaches remain civilized to an empirical standard. The northern ranges have been left to largely fend for themselves for several generations, now, and they are starting to chafe at the emperor's yoke.
The peoples have long since moved out of the caves and burrows riddling the walls of the trench, and into 'civilised' accomodations built across the floor of the deep-sea trench, always near thermal vents. Being the deepest part of the Warmwind Sea, it is cold and dark where they live. And, while their bodies have adapted to their environs just fine, they still need food and warmth. The pressure down there is quite crushing, and anyone visiting must travel there in a pressure suite, or a pressurized dome. Even those who can breathe water must travel slowly, so as to allow the density of water to adjust inside their bodies. Likewise, whipping someone quickly from the bottom of the trench, to the surface of the sea, would be a death sentance, as the gasses inside their body would expand explosively. This must be taken into consideration for things such as miliary manuevers, for example; one cannot manuever if one has violently exploded, or just as tragically, imploded due to pressure. Therefore, their troops train and live at a variety of depths, to maintain preparedness. Likewise, trade between the Upper and Lower Empire has been enacted in such a way as to ensure the safety of those travelling between areas of great pressure diversity. Massive networks of hyperbaric pressure canals connect the upper and lower empires, making it easier and faster (by orders of magnitude) to travel through differing depths throughout the trench and throughout the empire. It is just another example of the infrastructure and public works offered by the empire to its civilians.
Structure
Emperor/royalty→Senators→Regional Governors→Military Leaders (Generals, Admirals, etc.)→Civic Leaders (City Governors, Township Mayors, Village Councils, etc.) Small townships and villages are free to organize themselves as they wilt, as long as they bend their knee to the Emperor.
Culture
The people are very patriarchic, and look to their leaders for direction. There is very little in the way of rebellion or discord...mainly because it is always put down ruthlessly. The people enjoy fine art, and fine foods, and soaring arches in their architecture. The society is venerable, having been around for a couple of thousand years at the time of this writing, and they consider themselves the pinnacle of societal excellence. They are overtly sexual and quite promiscuous in both nature and nurture, although they do not tolerate sexual assault of any kind without prosecution.
Public Agenda
They shout their mantra from the depths..."The sky is the limit!" Their agenda is to spread their influence to, and squeeze the riches from, every country and territory they possibly can.
Assets
Their assets and infrastucture are vast and widespread, including barimetric pressure systems to safely travel up and down the sides of the trench. They have thousands of government buildings, and build and maintain public parks and communal amphitheaters for the public. Precious metals and gemstones are mined by companies owned and operated by the government, which also provides civil protection and law enforcement, via a special arm of the military. Byways and throughways through kelp forests and mountains of coral alike are cleared and maintained by the state, as well, using special equipment hauled by giant seahorses. The empire's stores of seige equipment and works of warcraft are designed so as to provide sufficient arms and armor to equip their entire army for up to four months without producing a single arrow.
History
Founded by the Cerulo brothers as a necessary protective measure, the two teamed their followers up to build a fifteen foot wall around a large, square fort and open yard. The arrangement worked so well, the people stayed on living and working side by side, even after the construction was long completed. Their real strength lay in the efficiency of their work gangs, and the faith they placed in their leaders. As the city grew, their leadership took shape as would a work gang, and soon enough, their own unique system of democracy was born. They have spent the better part of two thousand years expanding outward through various means, but they have come to their inflection point and have had to start pulling back troops from the outer parts of the empire. In their hubris, they believed themnselves powerful enough to bend the drylanders' knees. This was the beginning of the end that they currently find themselves facing.
Demography and Population
The empire is comprised of upwards of one-point-two-million merfolk at any given point, currently. This is well below their mean population back in their heyday. Scholars speculate that this is due to fewer parents, and them having time for fewer children. At the same time, the school system is failing their children in many subtle but important ways that have begun having a real world, measurable impact on recent generations.
Territories
Their territory has shrunk to the Cerulean Trench and its immediate proximity.
Military
While the former glory of the empire may be waning, it is still mighty beyond measure.
1. Imperial Navy: Size: The Imperial Navy consists of a highly skilled and well-trained force of 30,000 merfolk warriors. Roles: The Navy is responsible for defending the empire's borders, patrolling trade routes, and safeguarding underwater territories. Navy Specializations: Within the Navy, there are specialized units such as deep-sea divers, submarine crews, and aquatic archers.
2. Coastal Defense Units: Size: To protect the coastline and important coastal settlements, there are 10,000 merfolk stationed in coastal defense units. Roles: These units are focused on monitoring and defending the Cerulean Empire's immediate surroundings and preventing unauthorized access to its waters.
3. Imperial Guard: Size: The Imperial Guard is composed of 5,000 elite merfolk warriors, handpicked for their loyalty and combat skills. Roles: The Imperial Guard is responsible for the protection of Emperor Azure IV, the imperial palace, and other vital imperial assets.
4. Specialized Units: Submarine Fleet: The Cerulean Empire maintains a fleet of advanced submarines for reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and covert operations. Amphibious Assault Units: Special forces units adept at underwater combat and amphibious warfare stand ready to carry out critical missions. Magical Corps: Merfolk mages skilled in water-based magic enhance the empire's military capabilities with spells for defense, communication, and protection.
5. Conscription and Reserves: In times of need, the Cerulean Empire can call upon a trained reserve force of 20,000 merfolk, who are periodically drilled and prepared for active service. Conscription is used sparingly, and citizens are generally encouraged to serve voluntarily.
6. Naval Technology: The Imperial Navy is equipped with advanced underwater technology, including sonar systems, aquatic vehicles, and deep-sea exploration vessels. Weaponry includes harpoon launchers, spear guns, and enchanted coral blades, specially designed for underwater combat.
7. Defense Strategy: The Cerulean Empire's defense strategy prioritizes deterrence and protection of its deep ocean trench. It focuses on maintaining a strong naval presence and establishing alliances with neighboring underwater realms for mutual defense.
8. Leadership: The military is led by experienced admirals and generals who report directly to Emperor Azure IV. Leadership positions are earned through merit and demonstrated loyalty to the empire.
9. Training and Discipline: Merfolk warriors undergo rigorous training in combat skills, underwater navigation, and teamwork. Discipline and honor are highly valued, with a code of conduct emphasizing the protection of the empire and its citizens.
10. Intelligence and Reconnaissance:The Cerulean Empire maintains a network of underwater scouts and spies to gather intelligence on potential threats and maintain situational awareness.
In summary, the Cerulean Empire's military is a formidable force, well-trained and equipped to defend its deep ocean trench and protect its citizens. With advanced technology, a commitment to defense, and a focus on preserving the empire's sovereignty, the military ensures the security and safety of the merfolk population.
Religion
1. Deity Overview: Umberlee is a powerful and feared sea goddess in the Cerulean Empire's paganistic religion. She is often depicted as a tempestuous and unpredictable deity, embodying both the bountiful and treacherous aspects of the ocean. Merfolk revere Umberlee out of fear and respect, believing that appeasing her is essential for safety and prosperity in the deep ocean trench.
2. Worship and Rituals: Worship of Umberlee is marked by elaborate ceremonies held in underwater temples adorned with intricate coral and precious gems. Ceremonial offerings include pearls, seaweed, and fish, which are cast into the depths of the trench as gifts to appease the goddess. Special rites are performed during significant events, such as births, weddings, and funerals, to seek Umberlee's blessings and protection.
3. Seasonal Observances: The merfolk observe a calendar of seasonal festivals dedicated to Umberlee. These festivals coincide with the changing tides and underwater phenomena. The Feast of the Tempest, for example, is celebrated during stormy seasons, where merfolk offer sacrifices to pacify Umberlee's anger and seek her favor for calm waters and fruitful fishing.
4. Fear and Reverence: Umberlee is both revered and feared by the merfolk. She is believed to have the power to send storms, turbulent currents, and fierce sea creatures as punishments for disobedience. Merfolk often invoke her name in oaths and curses, seeking to avoid her wrath.
5. Priesthood: The priesthood of Umberlee is a respected and powerful institution within the empire. Priests and priestesses, known as "Deepwardens," serve as intermediaries between the merfolk and the goddess. They interpret signs from the sea, conduct rituals, and offer guidance on how to avoid angering Umberlee.
6. Moral Code: The religious doctrine emphasizes virtues such as humility, respect for the ocean, and a deep connection to the underwater world. Merfolk are encouraged to be mindful of their impact on the sea and its creatures. Devout followers believe that adherence to Umberlee's moral code will protect them from her wrath.
7. Divine Justice: Followers of Umberlee believe that she metes out divine justice, punishing those who harm the sea or its inhabitants, but also rewarding those who show devotion and respect.
8. Fear and Comfort: The worship of Umberlee provides both a source of fear and comfort to the merfolk. They fear her wrath but also seek solace in her protection, especially when venturing into the perilous depths of the trench.
9. Religious Symbols: Symbols associated with Umberlee include ocean waves, tridents, seashells, and the image of a tempestuous sea. In the Cerulean Empire, the religion centered around Umberlee is a complex mix of reverence, fear, and devotion. Merfolk navigate the unpredictable waters of their oceanic realm, seeking to appease their powerful goddess and gain her favor for the sake of their safety and prosperity.
Foreign Relations
The Cerulean Empire sees outsiders as curiosities, for the most part. Other nations are only tolerated becasue the empire could not sustain its thousand year glut of conquest. After taming the entirety of the The Warmwind Sea, the Cerulean's set their sights upon the coastal lands bordering their ocean demesne. This was the beginning of their end.
Laws
Preamble:
We, the citizens of the Cerulean Empire, united under the guidance of Emperor Azure IV, recognize the need for order, justice, and harmony in our deep ocean trench. With reverence for the ocean's bounties and the protection of our people, we hereby enact these laws to ensure the prosperity and well-being of our society.
Article I: Rights and Freedoms
Right to Life: Every merfolk has the inherent right to life and safety. It is forbidden to harm another merfolk except in self-defense. Freedom of Movement: Citizens have the freedom to traverse our oceanic realm, respecting the boundaries of others' territories. Freedom of Speech and Expression: Citizens may freely express their opinions, ideas, and beliefs, provided they do not incite violence or hatred.
Article II: Justice and Fairness
The Imperial Court: a. The Imperial Court shall consist of a Chief Judge, appointed by Emperor Azure IV, and a panel of experienced judges chosen for their wisdom and impartiality. b. The Chief Judge shall serve as the head of the court and oversee its proceedings, ensuring fairness and adherence to the law. c. Judges shall receive ongoing training in merfolk law and ethics to maintain their competence and impartiality. Due Process: a. A merfolk accused of wrongdoing shall have the right to legal representation. Legal representation can be chosen by the accused or, if unable to do so, appointed by the court. b. All trials shall be conducted openly, except when secrecy is deemed necessary for national security or the protection of minors. In such cases, the proceedings shall remain confidential. c. Evidence shall be obtained legally and presented transparently in court. Hearsay and coerced confessions are inadmissible. d. The accused shall have the right to remain silent and not self-incriminate. Any confession must be voluntary and obtained without duress. e. A fair and speedy trial is guaranteed. Delays in legal proceedings shall be minimized to prevent unjust incarceration. f. Appeals may be made to the Imperial Court, offering citizens a recourse if they believe their rights have been violated or justice has not been served. Restorative Justice: a. In cases where appropriate, restorative justice shall be pursued. This approach seeks to repair harm and rebuild trust between parties, rather than focusing solely on punishment. b. Mediation and reconciliation services shall be available to resolve disputes amicably within the community. Punishment and Rehabilitation: a. Punishment shall be proportionate to the severity of the offense, and rehabilitation shall be prioritized where possible. b. Prisons shall be designed to promote rehabilitation, providing education and skills training to inmates to facilitate their reintegration into society upon release. Protection of Vulnerable Populations: a. Special care and protection shall be provided to minors, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities within the justice system. b. Harsh penalties for crimes against vulnerable populations, such as child exploitation or elder abuse, shall be enforced to deter such offenses. Community Engagement: a. The justice system shall engage with the merfolk community through outreach and education programs to foster understanding and trust. b. Community input shall be sought when making significant changes to the justice system or laws affecting the citizenry.
Article III: Resource Management
Sustainable Harvesting: The empire shall sustainably manage its oceanic resources, ensuring the long-term health of our ecosystem. Overfishing, pollution, and resource depletion are strictly prohibited. Property Rights: Merfolk have the right to personal and communal property, but the empire retains ownership of vital resources to benefit all citizens.
Article IV: Cultural Preservation
Cultural Diversity: The Cerulean Empire celebrates its diverse cultural heritage. Discrimination or prejudice based on clan, color, or background is forbidden. Protection of Sacred Sites: Sacred sites, coral reefs, and historical landmarks are to be protected and preserved as part of our shared heritage.
Article V: Environmental Stewardship
Ecosystem Protection: All merfolk are stewards of our marine environment. Activities that harm the delicate balance of the ocean, such as the destruction of coral reefs or the pollution of waters, are strictly prohibited.
Article VI: Imperial Duties and Loyalty
Emperor's Authority: Emperor Azure IV's authority is respected and unquestioned. Loyalty to the empire and its leadership is paramount. Article VII: Defense and Security National Defense: The empire shall maintain a defensive force to protect against external threats and safeguard our underwater borders. War Avoidance: The empire shall seek peaceful resolutions to conflicts but reserves the right to defend itself when threatened.
Article VIII: Amendments and Evolutions
Amendments: These laws may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote of the Imperial Council, representing the will of the merfolk.
Conclusion:
We, the merfolk of the Cerulean Empire, pledge to uphold and abide by these laws. Through unity, wisdom, and reverence for our oceanic home, we shall continue to thrive and ensure the prosperity of our great empire under the leadership of Emperor Azure IV.
Agriculture & Industry
Agriculture in the Cerulean Empire, located in a deep ocean trench, is quite different from terrestrial farming. Here are some ways in which the merfolk of the Cerulean Empire practice agriculture in their unique underwater environment:
Coral Farming: Merfolk cultivate and harvest different species of corals. Coral reefs are carefully tended to provide habitats for various marine life and serve as sources of food and materials.
Kelp and Seaweed Cultivation: Kelp and various types of seaweed are a staple of the Cerulean diet. Merfolk have underwater gardens where they grow and harvest these plants. Seaweed can be used in a variety of dishes and as a source of essential nutrients.
Fish and Aquatic Animal Husbandry: Rather than traditional livestock, merfolk raise and breed fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic animals in underwater pens or enclosures. These animals would provide a consistent source of protein.
Pearl Farms: The Cerulean Empire is famous for its pearl production. Oysters and other mollusks that produce pearls are cultivated and harvested for both their pearls and meat.
Algae Cultivation: Algae can be used not only for food but also for medicinal purposes and as a source of biofuel. Merfolk cultivate specific types of algae in controlled environments.
Aquatic Plant Agriculture: Apart from kelp and seaweed, merfolk cultivate other aquatic plants for medicinal or decorative purposes.
Sponge Farming: Natural sponges are farmed and harvested for various uses, such as cleaning and personal care.
Ecosystem Management: Merfolk actively manage and protect underwater ecosystems, ensuring that the balance of species is maintained. This includes the care of seagrass beds, which are important breeding and feeding grounds for many marine animals.
Hydroponic Farming: In enclosed structures or habitats, merfolk practice hydroponic farming, using nutrient-rich water to cultivate terrestrial plants that can grow underwater. This method provides a wider variety of fruits and vegetables.
Coral Enhancement: While preserving natural coral reefs, merfolk also engage in coral enhancement projects, encouraging the growth of resilient coral species to protect their underwater environment.
Harvesting Deep-Sea Resources: In the deeper parts of the trench, merfolk might harvest unique deep-sea resources like certain species of fish, deep-sea crustaceans, or rare minerals.
Symbiotic Farming: Merfolk may utilize symbiotic relationships between species to enhance their agricultural efforts. For example, cultivating sea cucumbers that help to clean the seabed.
Agriculture in the Cerulean Empire would be closely tied to the underwater ecosystem, with a focus on sustainable practices to ensure the health of their oceanic realm. It would play a crucial role in providing food, materials, and livelihoods for the merfolk population.
Trade & Transport
Trade in the Cerulean Empire:
Trade Routes: The Cerulean Empire has established trade routes with neighboring underwater civilizations, coastal regions, and even distant underwater realms. These routes follow currents and safe underwater paths.
Merfolk Caravans: Traders and merchants, often known as "Aqua Caravaneers," transport goods using underwater vehicles and specially designed containers to protect cargo from water pressure and saltwater. These caravans are accompanied by guards to deter pirates or hostile sea creatures.
Commodities: The Cerulean Empire's main exports include pearls, coral products, exotic fish, and unique underwater minerals. In return, they import surface world resources, such as metals, textiles, technology, and other goods that are not readily available in the deep ocean trench.
Trade Hubs: The empire has established trade hubs located near the entrances to the trench, where goods from different regions are exchanged and distributed.
Transportation in the Cerulean Empire:
Aqua-Vehicles: Merfolk use various types of aqua-vehicles for transportation. These include submarine-like vessels powered by magical and/or natural means, aquatic animals trained for carrying passengers and cargo, and even specially designed watercraft propelled by underwater currents.
Current Paths: Knowledge of underwater currents and eddies is essential for efficient transportation. Merfolk have charts and navigational aids to traverse these currents safely and quickly.
Magical Transportation: In the Cerulean Trench, merfolk have access to magical means of transportation, such as enchanted seashells that act as portals, and teleportation devices between key underwater locations, if they are of the nobility.
Underwater Roads: Some well-traveled routes have underwater roads with signposts and markers made from materials that emit bioluminescent light, aiding navigation.
Trade Convoys: Groups of aqua-vehicles traveling together for safety and mutual support form trade convoys. These are led by experienced captains and navigators.
Communication: Communication between different parts of the empire and with trading partners relies on various methods, including acoustic signals, underwater beacons, and the use of magical messaging.
Storage Facilities: Along trade routes and in key locations, the Cerulean Empire has storage facilities to safeguard goods before and after transportation.
Customs and Regulations: There are customs and regulations governing trade, including tariffs, inspection of cargo, and the enforcement of trade agreements. The Imperial Navy is responsible for enforcing these rules.
Cultural Exchange: Trade and transportation facilitate cultural exchange between the Cerulean Empire and other civilizations, enriching the empire's knowledge and diversity.
Security Measures: Due to potential threats from sea monsters, pirates, or rival factions, the empire has defense measures in place, including naval escorts for valuable cargo and well-protected trade routes.
In the Cerulean Empire, trade and transportation are vital components of their society, allowing them to access goods and resources from other underwater and coastal regions while sharing their own unique products with the world. These systems are adapted to their underwater environment, ensuring the prosperity and growth of their civilization.
Ad Astra per Aspera
Maps
-
The Cerulean Trench: Mezzofathom: Entrance
The massive, pressurized door opens in the middle, to a walkway and canal that lead past one park, through another, directly to the Visitors Welcome Center. -
The Cerulean Trench: Cerulo
The oldest settlement in the trench, Cerullo is the birthplace of Hando and Mandollo Cerullo, the founders of The Cerulean Empire. -
The Cerulean Trench: Mezzofathom: Podus Publican
Public spaces and grandiose speaches are such an ingrained and beloved part of Aquan life that families will take picnic lunches to a local Podus Publican, where people can await their turn to speak upon a platform that rises up into the air with the touch of a button on the lectern installed thereupon. It rises a full twenty feet, but is small enough that people can see from many angles, including (of course) the pools set into the grounds of the park for the various Aquans, who so choose, to freely use. -
The Cerulean Trench
A deep, deep area of the The Warmwind Sea , the sheer sides of the trench harbor homes, businesses, and common areas, built by a huge consortium of Merrow that went on to form their own empire in 4840NG. -
The Cerulean Trench: Mezzofathom
The second oldest city in the Empire, and the capitol of the same, Mezzofathom has a massive population. Extending below the protective domes of the abyssal plain many hundreds of feet at times, the city extends upwards and downwards in equal proportion. -
The Cerulean Trench: Pluraspede: Crew Cabins
The cabins are where the crew spend most of their precious few downtime hours. There are hammocks, a plethora of reading materials, and a clever green-scale screen that they can watch the latest gladiatorial games on from anywhere in the trench.
Founding Date
2167NG
Type
Geopolitical, Empire
Capital
Alternative Names
The Empire of Roe
Demonym
Cerulean
Leader
Ruling Organization
Leader Title
Founders
Head of Government
Government System
Monarchy, Absolute
Power Structure
Transnational government
Economic System
Traditional
Currency
Gold septims, roughly equivalent to Stilton Ounce coins in the Unified Kingdoms of Greysilt.
Legislative Body
The emperor's cabinet and the elected senate.
Judicial Body
Judges are appointed, for life, by the emperor, and are ruled over by a committee of three civilians, and four judges, who answer directly to the emperor's Prime Minister. Lawyers are paid by the word, and are therefore very verbose by any measure, but the merfolk will only allow them to speak in intervals of no more than thirty minutes before a judge, who then has the right to ask them to continue, if they so desire, or to compel them to stop speaking altogether.
Executive Body
The executive body is made up of the emperor and his ministers, collectively called 'the Ministry' by the people of the empire. They often travel as a group, huddled around the emperor as he (or she...there have been as many women who have been the emperor as there have been men) goes about his or her business. It is they who write the laws that are interpreted by the Judicial body of the government. The military has a civil protection arm that is comprised mainly of former infantry troopers who are trained in community police work, and selected by temperament and moral fiber. They are not perfect, by any means; the civil protection services are famous for accepting bribes.
Subsidiary Organizations
Location
Controlled Territories
Neighboring Nations
Related Items
Organization Vehicles
Notable Members
Related Species
Related Ethnicities
Comments