Octa

The Octa are a race of aquatic individuals that appear to be a cross between fish and man. Of the six races, they were the last to be awakened by their Matron Goddess, Natiel, in 766 Awakening. They live in and around water, because although they are capable of living on land for long periods of time, they can develop many illnesses and bodily complications if on dry land for too long. Their largest settlement is the underwater city of Atargatis, hidden underneath the synthesized murk of Lake Haven. Living in an essentially different world than the other races, the Octa are not often seen amongst their contemporaries and are somewhat forced to a life of seclusion. They are however overall an extremely welcoming race, and are known to rally together and help the topsiders in times of need, even when their aquatic world is not in danger.

The Octa do however retain some above ground settlements as well. The city of Merling is a large above ground settlement created by the Octa on the shores of Lake Haven so as to retain a cultural and fiscal connection with the rest of the Empire. Weapons, armor and jewelry crafted from pearlescant Chiton found on rare mollusks at the basin of Lake Haven are prized world round and combined with the Octa fish market comprise their trade.